A planning inquiry into a proposed homes development near a nuclear weapons factory has been extended by four days to allow for more evidence to be submitted.
Controversial plans to build over 100 homes at Boundary Hall, 500m from the perimeter of the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) at Aldermaston were called in by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) earlier this year.
The HSE is concerned the proposed housing development by Cala Homes would put members of the public within the Detailed Emergency Planning Zone, which extends three kilometres around the factory.
The fear is housing within the zone would put residents at risk because of difficulties in arranging evacuation, deployment of emergency services and exposure to radiation in the event of a nuclear accident.
The inquiry was originally scheduled to end on Monday, October 18 but has been extended by four days from Tuesday November 16.
If approval is granted, the Boundary Hall site, currently derelict, will accommodate 115 new homes, community facilities, commercial premises, open spaces and improved footpaths.
Tadley councillor David Leeks said: “I have lived within the three-kilometre zone all my life and have no problems and don't worry about the location.”
