Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

The public Inquiry regarding phase 7b ended today.
The Inquiry was called because the WWDC planning committee had refused Persimmmon permission to build across the 'aspirational corridor' for the Staverton Diversion. At the planning meeting both myself and Trevor Carbin had supported refusal.

Much was made of various policies in the District Plan and whether refusal should have been based around policy H5 or 3.4.18 - really interesting stuff!! Staverton Parish Council was allowed to make a powerpoint presentation whilst I, and other members of the public, were allowed to address the Inquiry. I realise that councillors have livings to earn, but I was a little surprised that, for a matter of this importance to Staverton residents, neither my fellow District Councillor (Trevor) nor our County Councillor (Sarah Content) attended on either day.

At the end of the Inquiry, Persimmon's barrister asked for a complete award of costs as he felt that WWDC had acted un-reasonably in refusing planning permission, but this is at the discretion of the Inspector if he allows the appeal.

The Inspector intimated that a decision may be with the Planning Inspectorate by the end of next week, and that interested parties should hear within four weeks; watch this space!!