RETROSPECTIVE plans for six water tanks at a vineyard, described as a 'mini oil refinery', have been permitted by civic chiefs.

The plan had met with opposition from local groups and a parish council over the impact on the area.

However, Test Valley Borough Council's southern area planning committee permitted the plan, for six water tanks for frost control and vine irrigation at Chalkvale Vineyard in Little Somborne. 

Committee member Cllr Ian Jeffrey gave a deputation and then left the room for the remainder of the debate after declaring an interest.

Cllr Jeffrey said: “This has had a long list of objectors. It has been called a 'mini oil refinery' in a significant location. Objectors see this as the thin end of the wedge. 

“More applications could appear to cover other areas of the vineyard. We need to protect the River Test. I think we should refuse this.”

Graham Searle, from King's Somborne Parish Council, spoke in support of the application. He said: “The scheme is economically beneficial. It will result in noise reduction. The landscape issues could be mitigated.”

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Ashley Parish Meeting, the Campaign for Protection of Rural England, the Angling Trust and Wildfish (formerly Salmon & Trout Conservation) submitted objections to the plan.

Grace Everett, chairman of Ashley Parish Meeting, said: “The six tanks are most concerning. They will only serve 16 per cent of the vineyard. If permission is granted, there is no going back. Permission will open the floodgates. 

“It won't have economic benefits locally. They only have two full time employees.”

Nick Boyd, an objector, said: “This is to provide frost protection for a luxury item. It does not benefit the local economy. The harm outweighs the benefits. The community is unanimous in objecting this.”

The applicant's agent, Paul Carnell, said: “Vines are very susceptible to cold weather. The applicant has worked with the planning officer to reduce the visual impact as well as a planting scheme.”

Cllr Alison Johnston said: “The visual impact is acceptable for the public footpaths.”

The committee agreed to permit the plan unanimously.