A PARISH council has vowed to fight plans to build a large garden centre on the outskirts of a village.
Rowlands Castle Parish Council will be making representations at a public inquiry on plans to relocate Keydell Nurseries from Horndean to Mays Coppice Farm.
The inquiry comes after Keydell has appealed against a decision by East Hampshire District Council.
Lisa Walker, parish clerk, said: ‘We believe that other concerns, shared by many residents, especially regarding traffic loads and safety, and retail impact in Rowlands Castle village, also need to be argued at the inquiry.’
A specialist planning solicitor has been appointed, but the parish council said fighting the case could cost between £12,000 and £13,000.
Officials said they wanted to avoid a one-off increase in the council tax precept and have set up a fund.
Cheques made payable to Rowlands Castle Parish Council can be sent to 11 The Green.
Meanwhile, Keydell representatives are expected to make arguments at the inquiry, starting April 30 at St John’s Church Hall, that the garden centre will be a benefit to the village.
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