CAMPAIGNERS have lost their battle to prevent up to 140 homes being built at The Batch in Hanham.
A Government inspector has allowed an appeal by the developers Ashfield Land and Redrow Homes for the 20-acre site south of Hencliffe Way and east of Castle Farm Road.
The inspector, Matthew Nunn, said that since South Gloucestershire Council planners had refused permission in August last year because the site was in the Green Belt, the Government had introduced the concept of the Grey Belt, where housing development could take place.
He said the site would provide much-needed housing, with half of the proposed homes classed as affordable.
“I find the substantial benefits of the scheme, comprising the provision of market and affordable housing, the various economic, environmental and social benefits, and the accessibility to shops and services, all taken together, clearly outweigh any harms arising,” he concluded.
More than 1,500 objections to the plan, which includes the demolition of a house in Hencliffe Way to create access, were received by the council and opponents, including the Hanham District Green Belt Conservation Society, took part in the planning inquiry in May.