Shocked villagers in Sellack are at loggerheads with the county council after opposing the development of six modern homes in a tranquil spot accessed by a Roman bridleway which they say threatens their quiet and idyllic bolthole, and will destroy the natural habitat.
Councillor Harry Bramer has become embroiled in the row after he bought the partially-restored Caradoc Court, its grounds and the development site in 2008. He completed the restoration, thus opening the door for the development which was granted in 1995 by South Herefordshire District Council on the proviso that the main house be restored first.
The development has been given the go-ahead despite on-going protests by villagers who say the council has been unnecessarily negative in discussions on the investigation of an alternative site. If the site were developed it would be at the cost of the rural bridleway which would need to provide access.
Action group member David Dilworth said revised plans submitted by Cllr Bramer in December to increase the bedrooms in the houses had been withdrawn after protests.
It is believed Cllr Bramer has sold the site to a builder who intends to start work but he refused to comment further.
Mr Dilworth said: “The council has shown a worrying lack of regard for the views of local people. A local landowner offered an alternative site which would overcome many of the problems and save this wonderful old bridleway. With the backing of local residents and outside bodies we have sought the support of the Herefordshire Council – so far without success.”
Neighbour John Gartside said: “The latest news is that Cllr Bramer has sold Caradoc Court, and has passed ownership of the field on to a builder, and that work is due to commence in the next couple of weeks. We are all worried sick.”
A Herefordshire Council spokesman confirmed the planning permission was valid.
Villagers plan to hand out a petition at the Herefordshire County Fair, which will be held in the meadows below the development site this weekend. They also have a website http://www.stopruiningsellack.co.uk