THE ruling over a controversial plan to build hundreds of new homes in Hampshire has been delayed.

Community and council bosses were meant to present their arguments about the scheme to build 230 homes in Netley Abbey at an appeal hearing in Hamble yesterday.

However, the hearing was adjourned after a key witness on the applicant’s side could not appear due to illness.

A new date has not been set yet but it is understood that it could be as late as the autumn.

Netley Abbey councillor Lizette Van Niekerk said: “We only heard in the morning. It’s unclear whether the illness will improve or not, that’s why we decided to adjourn it.”

As previously reported, the plan for the land to the east of Grange Road was put forward by applicant Sheet Anchor Properties but was rejected last September.

Planning chiefs said that the proposal would have a negative impact on the environment and traffic in the area.

Bursledon, Hamble-le-Rice and Hound Local Area Committee also ruled that there was a lack of developer contributions towards education, recreation and community facilities.

Cllr Van Niekerk said: “Our position for the application won’t change. The refusal was the correct decision. We will have another chance to defend our position.”

The developer’s original plans for 250 homes were thrown out in 2015.

At the time residents and councillors argued that building on the site could cause flooding, traffic problems, overwhelm infrastructure and have a negative effect on the character of the village.

The future date for the appeal hearing will be decided by the planning inspector.

A spokesman for Sheet Anchor Properties said: “One of our key witnesses was taken very ill and that’s the only reason. There’s no point having an appeal if one of the key witnesses is unavailable. That’s the reason why it has been adjourned.”

Cllr Van Niekerk said that this will not stop the development of the Local Plan.

Netley Abbey councillor David Airey said: “Nothing changes. It’s just that things will be adjourned. It will probably happen in the autumn.”