VILLAGERS have pledged to continue to fight against a controversial development – even though a planning application for the site has been withdrawn.
Developer Bacchus Partners Ltd had submitted plans for four three-bedroom homes, with 11 car parking spaces, to Tandridge District Council in June for land behind the Whyte Harte in Bletchingley, but has now withdrawn that application.
The plans came up against fierce opposite from residents following a campaign in the village.
And alongside opposition from residents, there were objections from Surrey County Council, and from Bletchingley Parish Council.
But campaigners say they have won the battle, but not the war, as a further application is in the pipeline.
Outwood Lane resident Martin Brown explained: "The developers have finally realised that their first application was hopeless.
"The campaign will carry on until they go away and leave historic Bletchingley alone."
Objectors believe plans to build on the site are wrong as it is a greenfield site in the heart of a conservation area, and fear any new access road, which would open into Outwood Lane, would be dangerous.
But the developer's notice of withdrawal makes it clear they will be submitting revised plans and that a further attempt to gain planning permission will be made.
Will Kitchener, spokesman for the developer, said: "In any event, we are very pleased with the number of interested people who wish to purchase the new homes once they are built, and that the parish council has agreed in principle to residential development on this redundant and private site.
"Despite some strong localised opposition from immediate neighbours we think we can overcome the planning issues to achieve a successful scheme to provide homes for singles, couples, retirees or families who wish to live in this historic village.
"We also wish to confirm that despite a number of comments to the contrary, it has been confirmed by the [district] council and our professional advisers that this is not a greenbelt site, but very much an in-fill site in the village, the redevelopment of which the parish is supportive of as long as we can address some key design issues."
A website with information about the proposed development can be found at www.bletchingleycampaign.org.uk
