THE future of up to 95 homes in Wiveliscombe is still unknown as a planning appeal has been adjourned.
Representatives from Taunton Deane Borough Council and Gladman Development Ltd gathered this morning (Just 31) at the Albemarle Centre to start the proceedings.
The appeal was lodged after the Deane refused an application for up to 95 homes on land off North Street in March earlier this year as it was not part of the council's list of sites suitable for development.
Planning inspector Alan Novitzky opened the proceedings that were expected to last for eight days.
He outlined how Gladman planned to argue the authority could not meet its five year housing land supply. Each party was expected to call three witnesses each, with a handful of public speakers hoping to voice their concerns, including Baroness Rosie Boycott.
The appeal taking place at the Albemarle Centre.
But the legal battle was halted after Scott Stemp, on behalf of the council, and Alan Evans, on behalf of Gladman, jointly agreed an adjournment would be the most appropriate action due to the publication of the new national planning framework on July 24.
The new framework features new definitions of issues such as deliverability and affordable housing.
Mr Evans argued four working days was not enough time to properly adjust their arguments.
He said: "I am proposing with adjourn to take account of the new framework that was published last week.
"We have only had four working days, so haven't taken proper account of it and don't expect to."
The Deane's legal representatives agreed with the need for the adjournment.
He said: "It's a matter of fairness, each party needs time to respond. It's a wholly unsatisfactory set of circumstances."
The appeal was adjourned by the planning inspectorate but conflicting schedules meant no firm date for the re-commencement has been set.
Mr Novitzky said: "I see no alternative but to adjourn.
"Certain definitions have changed in the framework. I thought allowing two weeks for the proceedings would be enough time to revise arguments but both parties were opposed to that.
"I cannot confirm a new date yet but will report back."
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