There is turmoil in Urchfont at the moment over a planning application which, if approved, will see 22 houses built in the heart of the village.

The residents fear that building on this scale plus the associated vehicles will transform a rural scene which many travel from afar to view, paint and photograph.

It is understandable that the owner of the site, which is at present a derelict farmyard and in need of attention, should wish to maximise his assets and, in addition, we are told that because of a national shortage of housing every available space must be utilised.

But there can be no doubt that the introduction of 22 houses in the centre of a village that has been declared of 'outstanding natural beauty' and is protected by 'minimum change' status will be dramatic. Some have described it as 'an act of vandalism'. Everything is now in the hands of Kennet District Council who meet today (Thursday) to decide the fate of Urchfont. They have a heavy responsibility.

J BLUNDEN

Urchfont