A LONG-running feud over the installation of a new public hearing device at Romsey Town Council could be about to come to an end.

Pensioner, David Barker, has been calling for a new “loop” system to be installed in the downstairs courtroom at the town hall, because he claims the current infrared mechanism is inadequate.

And the council has now agreed to spend £1,000 on the project – if technicians say the scheme is possible.

The decision follows a lengthy row between Mr Barker and the council over the hearing system in the room where councillors hold their meetings.

Members of the town council gave the scheme the green light earlier this week.

But the plan hinges on whether the loop device will be able to work at the same time as one already in use in the upstairs council chambers.

Former town mayor, Karen Dunleavey, said: “We are not bowing to pressure from Mr Barker – this is something we have always wanted to do.

“We were told in the past that we could have two loop systems working simultaneously in the same building – that is why we have not been able to go ahead with it.

“The next step is that we will have an independent person to have a look at it and see if it is possible to have a loop in there.”

Mr Barker said: “I am satisfied with the outcome, but I will be monitoring the situation carefully.”