Waverley planners have approved a scheme to replace one home in Hindhead with four new four-bedroom homes, despite objections from neighbours and local councillors.

The proposed development, at Tarn Corner on the corner of Tarn Road and Headley Road, raised a red flag for some councillors, including vice chairman of the western planning committee, Cllr John Robini (Lib Dem, Haslemere Critchmere and Shottermill).

Cllr Robini expressed worry that Thames Water had not commented on the application, despite well-documented water and waste supply issues in the area.

However, other councillors, such as Simon Dear (Conservative, Haslemere East and Grayswood) and Anna James (Conservative, Chiddingfold and Dunsfold), believed the development would provide much-needed homes in Waverley and fit in well with its surroundings.

Cllr James even believed the site could have accommodated even more homes. But Cllr Brian Edmonds (Farnham Residents, Farnham Wrecclesham and Rowledge) disagreed, saying while he could support fewer homes on the site, four was too many.

Ward councillor Julian Spence highlighted the potential highway problems it could cause on Headley Road, where serious accidents have occurred including two over the Christmas holiday period. He also raised concerns about the manoeuvrability of vehicles and safety issues resulting from the development.

Despite objections from neighbours who said the development would change the character of the area, the application was approved by eight votes in favour and four against, aligning with officers’ recommendation to grant full planning permission.