Wiltshire Council to legally challenge Old Sarum Airfield planning decision
The authority says they're taking action following a fire on site
A legal challenge has been launched by Wiltshire Council today (Wednesday 21st May), against a Planning Inspectorate decision to grant permission for housing at Old Sarum Airfield.
An application for over 300 houses, a flying hub, visitor centre and employment spaces was initially refused by the local authority in August 2024.
Concerns over infrastructure and access were raised, along with the site's close proximity to the Old Sarum Scheduled Ancient Monument and a Conservation Area.
An appeal was lodged by the Airfield's owners, followed be a public inquiry, with an inspector ruling the harm could be mitigated.
That decision was based on conditions that a Grade II* listed World War One aircraft hangar was preserved and protected.
Just days after the outcome was revealed, a devastating fire destroyed the hangar, and the café next door.
Cllr Adrian Foster, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, Development Management and Housing, said: “The basis on which the decision was made to allow the appeal has altered following the devastating fire to the listed aircraft hangar at Old Sarum Airfield.
“Following legal advice, in light of the unusual circumstances surrounding this case, we have taken the decision to launch a legal challenge against the Planning Inspector’s decision.
“We have applied to the court to challenge the decision and we now wait to hear whether it will proceed to hearing.”