Councillors jeered by campaigners as 'shambolic' meeting over plans for 6,000 home new town in Hampshire countryside descends into chaos

The Welborne project, which would be built on land to the north of Fareham, has been fiercely opposed by a number of residents' groups and campaigners.

Fareham Borough Council held the meeting to thrash out the details of the scheme, which was criticised by Government-appointed inspector David Hogger.

After one outburst of jeering from the public Mayor of Fareham David Norris called for the gallery to be cleared, although after brief discussion it was agreed that this would not be necessary.

At the opening of the meeting anti-Welborne campaigner Shaun Cunningham gave a speech fiercely critical of councillors.

He said: "This council is no longer in the driving seat - it's a mere passenger and most of the members are not fit for purpose.

"I will be here every step of the way pointing out the promises you will no doubt break."

The meeting quickly descended into chaos after members became confused over which aspects of the plans they were able to discuss and modify.

Councillors became exasperated at proceedings and a cry of "this is a farce" came from the public gallery during one vote, while councillor Peter Davies admitted the situation was a "shambles".

A number of amendments were discussed and voted down, including whether the minimum 'buffer zone' between Welborne and other settlements should be increased from 75 metres to 150 metes.

Despite questioning many aspects of the plan, councillor Paul Whittle announced he would back the recommendations put forward in order to let the public decide.

He said: "I am inclined to support the recommendation because we should let the people have their say.

"Let's let it go to the inspector and let him see the great gaping holes in the Welborne plan."

As previously reported by the Daily Echo, plans for the site include four schools, 100,000 square metres of shops and major infrastructure developments, including a new junction 10 construction on the M27.

A public inquiry was called and government appointed inspector Mr Hogger spent two weeks going through the project in detail.

Following this process he raised a number of concerns and asked the council to respond and suggest modifications that would enable him to find the plan sound.

At the end of the meeting councillors voted to endorse all recommendations and the plan will now go out for public consultation between Monday, January 26 and Monday, March 9.

Residents will be able to have their say on all major modifications proposed, as well as a serious of small changes known as minor modifications.

Councillor Keith Evans, executive member for planning and development, said: "I would ask anyone that is interested to comment on the changes during the consultation period starting next week.

"The inspector will take into account any comments made before issuing a final report on whether he finds the Welborne plan sound and legally compliant.'