PLANNERS have granted permission to allow a Meon Valley business to create a new entrance to its premises despite 14 objections.

Alan Batten, chief executive of ARB Mechanical, applied for access off Lower Chase Road in Waltham Chase.

That sparked objections from neighbours who say it will create a traffic hazard with lorries being unable to turn right out of the premises without going over the pavement.

Objector Mark Jones told the planning committee: "Lower Chase Road is not suitable for a new entrance. It will create additional hazard for vulnerable road users."

Local ward councillor Malcolm Wallace agreed, telling the committee: "Lower Chase Road is narrow with no pavement. It is used by cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians including children going to the local secondary school."

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Shedfield Parish Council also objected and its reasons included the fact that the removal of the hedgerow would be contrary to the Village Design Statement.

The plan also includes car parking for eight vehicles and a new hedge to replace a poor quality one.

The planning committee heard that Hampshire Highways had not opposed the application.

Cllr Frank Pearson said ARB already had an adequate entrance off the A2177 Winchester Road, adding "a three-axle lorry wouldn't be able to come out of the entrance without going on the pavement opposite. This is used by children going to Swanmore College.

"I would question the Hampshire Highways decision, whoever made it."

Around two to three three-axle lorries would go to the site every week, the committee heard.

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Cllr Jane Rutter pointed out that there is already an access from ARB onto Lower Chase Road but is narrow and currently locked, so a planning precedent had been set.

Committee chair Cllr Therese Evans said: "We lost the plot with Lower Chase Road years ago. It has all become industrialised. This development is better than some of the others down the road.

"I don't like all the industries that have crept up on Lower Chase Road but this is not one of the worst ones and I cant see a (planning) reason to refuse it."

The plan was approved with two voting against.