Local residents in Burton are hoping that plans for six new homes to be built on a contentious plot of land will be rejected at a meeting this evening.
The proposed site, situated in a field off of Preston Lane, has been the subject of previous disputes.
A report submitted by Christchurch Borough Council’s planning committee asserts that the land is not covered under certain building restrictions – something some locals don’t agree with.
One resident, who asked not to be named, thinks the plot has “always been green belt”.
The local, who has lived in the area for over 40 years, said: “There has been three plans submitted – this is the final one.
“The company (Cawdor Construction Developments Ltd.) have said there were two maps, and that on one of them [the land] wasn’t green belt”.
However, they added it will “probably get passed”.
Green belt land is a policy used to control urban growth and sprawl.
“Out of character”
Chris Burch has lived adjacent to the proposed site for over 30 years and is speaking at this evening’s meeting.
He believes the development is “out of character with the lane”.
Mr Burch said: “There’s no need or demand for [the houses].
“It was always thought of as a green belt property, but for some reason the council have made it grey (free to be built on), and nobody has come up with a proper explanation”.
Mr Burch is also worried about the safety of pedestrians walking down Preston Lane.
He said: “That’s one of my other objections: it’s just dangerous.
“There’s only one light – if you want to walk along the lane it’s just pitch black.
“It’s only 2.7 metres wide, and you get lorries going down there for the farm at the end – you’ve just got nowhere to go”.
Christchurch Borough Council are yet to respond to the Breaker’s request for comment.
There are a number of conditions that the proposal must adhere to if it is granted.
The meeting will be held at 6pm tonight at the Civic Offices in Christchurch.
You can also watch the meeting here.
