A DEVELOPMENT for nearly 100 homes in a Hampshire village which was refused, could still be pushed through.

Despite Winchester City Council planning committee rejecting plans by Gladman Developments for 90 homes in Otterbourne the developer has appealed to the planning inspectorate for the decision to be overturned.

Hundreds of residents have objected to the plans which were originally refused in November, and their views have been matched by that of local councillors who say the development goes against the Winchester City Council Local Plan.

The development was refused originally on the grounds that it is against the local plan as it would be "detrimental" to the landscape and rural setting of the village, and that it would extend development outside the built-up area of Otterbourne into an area of countryside

Former councillor Ann Bailey who lives in Otterbourne is one of those who believes the development should be rejected once more.

She said: "There are a number of reasons it is a bad site for development and over the years Otterbourne was excluded from the development area."

She said that development is close to a borehole, and said she is concerned about the impact the plans could have on the local infrastructure.

The developer says the scheme will include up to 40 per cent affordable housing and a variety of housing, public open space will be provided on site including a children’s play area.

But residents who have objected believe that the the pressure put on the local infrastructure will be problematic.

Councillor Eleanor Bell said:"The application by Gladman for 90 homes on Land east of Main Road Otterbourne is speculative development and was rightly refused by WCC Planning Department because it was contrary to the Winchester Local Plan and outside the Otterbourne village development boundary.

It is now going to Appeal but the arguments are the same or stronger, as Part 2 of the Local Plan has formally been ‘found sound’ by the Inspector and will have been adopted by the time the Appeal is heard.

"Feelings are running high amongst residents in Otterbourne. The site is sensitive because it is a popular open space and is part of the local aquifer.

"Any development has to be planned strategically, taking account of local infrastructure requirements and in accordance with this or future Local Plans."