Trawling through this week's NWN, it seems that the Sandleford protesters have the Planning people on the run. Like it or not, there are externally imposed demands for new housing in the area, so even if Sandleford doesn't go ahead - the new homes will have to go somewhere.
Chieveley was mentioned, that is around North Newbury / Hermitage. Seems that the protesters are implying this site would be far better and the local landowner (Fairhurst Estates) didn't have time to submit a proper application!
So if its not going to be in my back yard, the answer is simply to throw it over the wall in to the neighbours. Thanks a bunch!! Doesn't actually affect me personally - but this type of politicking is quite selfish and squalid.
Don't try and pretend there are all sorts of environmental issues, historic or national treasure reasons - when your only alternative suffers from exactly the same problems.
So this really is a fight, at great public expense, simply to protect the interests of a few individuals who are powerful and influential. Shame the vast amount of thought and energy expended couldn't be directed at helping us properly decide how best to meet the Government demand.
Douglas Adams? Come on North Newbury has D H Lawrence and the Fox. So perhaps all is not lost; start worrying about those rabbits!