MEMBERS of Limmerhill Residents Association, and protest group Save Limmerhill, are celebrating the dramatic rescue of one of Wokingham’s remaining green spaces.
An appeal made by developers Monopro Ltd last month, to build 60 homes on green space between Wokingham and Barkham, has been refused.
“This is wonderful news for the people of Wokingham,” said resident Ruth Gibbs.
“It prevents even more development and destruction of an area of beauty that is enjoyed by so many people.
“The planning inspector listened and let common sense win through.
“We are so happy.”
Councillors, developers and local residents all gathered at Wokingham Borough Council’s Shute End offices last month, to discuss an application from Monopro Ltd to build on Limmerhill.
National Government inspector Mr David Rose led the session, and has made his final decision.
Monopro Ltd wanted to build 60 homes off Limmerhill Road, close to Ye Olde Leathern Bottel pub, where it intended to locate access to the site.
The company argued the need for housing, but residents and Wokingham Borough Council were against the developer’s plans, with the council having twice already rejected Monopro’s applications to build on Limmerhill.
Rex Lucas, who spoke at the appeal, said: “The Planning Inspector decided the development would cause too much harm to the character of the area.
“He said the land is clearly countryside rather than ‘urban fringe’, and building houses there would destroy the rural views from Limmerhill Road and push Wokingham beyond its natural edge.
“Most importantly, he concluded the scheme did not properly respect the landscape or fit the setting, meaning it would not create a well-designed place.
“Even though more housing is needed, he decided these harms outweighed the benefits, so the appeal was refused.”
The site is thought to have archeological significance, with Natural England deeming it of special environmental quality.
Berkshire Archaeology has also warned of damage to ancient remains if the area were to be developed, as significant finds have been uncovered just 40 metres away, including four iron-age furnaces, and Stone Age Mesolithic flint.
Councillor Louise Timlin, impressed by the determination of residents, said at the appeal: “The Limmerhill Road Residents Association has been impressively organised, done a lot of work, and carried out a lot of research.”
For information, visit Save Limmerhill’s Facebook page.
