A legal challenge by Farnham Town Council (FTC) against a developer could see a decision by the end of summer.

FTC’s High Court challenge against Wates Developments Ltd was heard in London on July 16 and 17. Regarding, Wates’ proposal to build 146 homes on green fields on either side of Waverley Lane.

In a FTC meeting on July 18, councillors discussed the case and Cllr George Murray said the judge expects a judgement by the end of the summer holidays.

Everyone agreed that the council’s legal team had done a “fantastic job” at representing the case and described the days in court as a “battle royale”.

Cllr White commented: “If nothing else, this has demonstrated our allegiance to the plan as we move forward to a new neighbourhood plan.

“We want the community to be involved and I think we've demonstrated to them that we think the neighbourhood plan is a very important document.” In a report by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, a Wates Group spokesman said: “The town council continues to spend taxpayer’s money on extensive legal fees.

“Whilst also delaying the delivery of much needed new homes including affordable in the borough where there is a chronic housing shortfall and need.

“Wates would rather put those funds to better use through investment in the local community – which is why we made this offer as part of without prejudice negotiations. The planning permission was granted over 12 months ago through an entirely separate process.”

The hearing follows FTC receiving a request from Bourne Club president Stephen Matthews, asking the council to drop the case as it would get £200,000 from Wates.

The Herald has heard that some club members are unhappy about the request as it has brought disrepute to the Club.