Haslemere Town Council has unanimously voted to join the Rule 6 group opposing a controversial development threatening protected green spaces. The group, which includes the Haslemere Society and Haslemere South Residents Association, will give the community an official seat at the public inquiry re-run. Rule 6 status allows local organisations to pool resources and expertise to protect their interests.

Councillors objected to the development, which is once again under appeal following an administrative oversight. The Planning Inspector rejected Redwood (South West) Ltd’s appeal to build 110 homes, citing irreversible harm to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). However, during the inquiry, the Inspector "liked" a LinkedIn post by a developer's witness, raising concerns of bias. A judicial review in July deemed the oversight unlawful, quashing the appeal decision. A new appeal is set for April 2025.

Cllr Farzana Aslam said: “It is an incredible waste of money and public resources to have another seven-day appeal because of a technical matter. The fact it was overturned on that basis is a complete travesty.”

Cllr Lesley Banfield added that, as well as harming the AONB, the development would also violate the Haslemere Neighbourhood Plan, which restricts development in designated natural landscapes.

HSRA added: “We believe the developer will opportunistically try to take advantage of the new increased housing targets to build. However, this land is not a grey or brownfield site and should retain its protected status.

“This development will forever damage the distinctive character of Haslemere. The proposed development includes a new access road from Midhurst Road into the large housing estate, which would mean the felling of a beautiful avenue of mature trees. This also involves destroying a key wildlife corridor. Last, but not least, the development will place unsustainable pressure on local schools, health centres, and infrastructure.”