PLANNING permission has been approved to build a single home on land in Baughurst.

The application, which was submitted by Simon Evans on April 27, 2023, sought permission to build a single residential dwelling on a 0.24-hectare plot at a paddock west of The King's Peace, Church Lane. 

Permission to build the three-bedroom home was granted on January 19 under delegated powers. However, the decision was overturned as an 'issue with the IT system' meant that a fourth objection was not viewed until after the decision had been issued.

READ MORE: New leader taking charge of Basingstoke's Labour group

The process for making decisions on planning applications lodged with Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council means that if an application receives more than three objections, it should be heard by the authority's development control committee.

Tadley Town Council and Wootton St Lawrence Parish Council objected to the plans, raising concerns that they could 'set a precedent for further development' and 'would result in isolated, sporadic and urbanising housing development'.

Two residents also raised objections, adding that the plans could have a 'negative impact to wildlife in the area' and harm biodiversity due to an 'increase in traffic'.

Speaking at the committee on Wednesday, May 15, Mr Evans said: "Since receiving that letter in February [that the decision was overturned], my life has been turned into an absolute nightmare of disappointment, stress and uncertainty for both me and my elderly mum.

"To be given approval and then, a month later, have it taken away is just so unjust."

Planning officers recommended that the application should be refused as the settlement would fall outside of the settlement policy boundary and would be considered countryside.

SEE ALSO: MPs sign letter calling for North Wessex Downs to become a national park

Cllr Jo Slimin, ward member for Tadley and Pamber, said the recommendation for the application to be refused was a 'total miscarriage of justice'.

She added: "I hope that the council will put matters right and my colleagues will see that justice needs to be served."

Cllr Paul Miller said that "this is one case where I think, the harm wasn't there, and that's what it comes down to."

Commenting on the proposal, Cllr Angie Freeman said: "We made a mistake which has reversed this decision. It doesn't sit with me to refuse this, it really doesn't,"

The committee approved the applications with six members voting in favour and one abstaining.