TWO PLANNING applications for homes in Petersfield are due to be decided by South Downs National Park planning committee.

A bid by Persimmon Homes to build 79 homes at the end of Larcombe Road looks set to be approved, if the committee follows officers’ recommendations.

A report to the committee says: “It is considered that the need to meet the housing need and especially the provision of 40 per cent of the total being affordable housing would be a public benefit.

“The application is recommended for approval.”

Local residents have objected to the proposed estate with 10 four bedroom homes, 28 three bedroom, 33 two bedroom and eight one bedroom flats.

They claim the access via Larcombe Road isn’t sufficient and will create a rat run. However the developers have included provision for a second access from the new estate onto The Causeway.

The second application by Lynwood Scientific Developments Executive to demolish Paris House in Frenchmans Road and build 47 homes looks likely to be turned down.

Lynwood says Paris House as an employment site isn’t viable any longer; a proposal national park planners accept.

But planners say there have been objections to the development from Petersfield Town Council and residents living nearby, and that the plans don’t include any affordable housing. .

A report says: “It is recommended that planning permission is refused.”

Both applications are to be decided at the national park planning committee public meeting on Thursday, November, 12, at South Downs Centre, North Street, Midhurst, GU29 9DH, starting at 10am.