THE planning inquiry into the refusal of the controversial plan to build 110 houses at Marl Lane, Deganwy, due to start on Wednesday, has been postponed.

Last September Conwy Borough Councillors decided to refuse permission for the application by Beech Developments of Llandudno Junction, against the recommendation by the planning officers to grant permission.

There had been a great deal of opposition to the plan, lead by local councillors Sue Shotter and Mike Priestley.

Cllr Shotter said: “I feel disappointed the appeal has been postponed because a lot of people were going to attend the Inquiry and they have been given very little notice of the delay. Hopefully they will get the message in time, we will do what we can to inform them. Residents feel passionate about keeping this piece of green land, one of the last in the area, hence the strength of their objections.”

Cllr Priestley added: “I’m really, really disappointed. We had contacted hundreds of residents via social media and through leafleting to tell them the appeal was taking place, and now they have to be told it has been delayed, and no solid reason has been given.

“There is very strong feeling against this plan, it is the wrong development in the wrong place, and residents want this sorted out once and for all.”

A spokesman for the Planning Inspectorate Wales said: “Due to circumstances beyond the Inspectorate’s control, the Inquiry has been postponed. We are currently liaising with the parties to reschedule the Inquiry on another date.

A Beech Developments spokesman said: “It is unfortunate the inquiry has had to be postponed but we understand this cannot be helped. We are hopeful that when the Inquiry goes ahead, the Inspector will consider the very clear need and statutory requirement in the development plan, for affordable homes in Conwy County.”