VILLAGERS are coming to terms with the news that their hamlet is set to increase radically in size after

plans to build 80 new homes were been given the go-ahead.

Government planning chiefs have given the green light to a multi-million pound housing estate at Hadzor Hall, despite strong opposition.

The decision follows a three-day public inquiry into the plans, which was called after protests from the Keep Hadzor Special Campaign group, which has been battling against the £25m development since 2000.

The Planning Inspectorate will now allow developer Neil Grinnall to restore and redevelop the historic hall, the adjacent church, grounds and farm. The project will take around two years to complete.

Campaigner and Hadzor councillor Patrick Clamp said: "This is a big blow for us and something we obviously didn't want. We fear that this could be the start to the urbanisation of Hadzor as it will be the first major development to the east side of the motorway. We are very disappointed that it has been given the go-ahead, but I don't think that there is much more we can do."

Developer Neil Grinnall said: "I am naturally delighted that our plans for Hadzor Hall have been approved, giving us the opportunity to restore this historic building and, at the same time, create a unique new-build scheme within the grounds."