A DEVELOPER and councillors were stunned when planning officials told them a scheme to build nearly 300 homes in the Hampshire countryside had been put on hold.

Test Valley's southern area councillors were due to debate Barratt David Wilson Homes controversial scheme at Ganger Farm in Woodley near Romsey on Tuesday evening but following a shock last minute objection from another unnamed developer, planning officials deferred the application.

Managing director at Barratt David Wilson Homes Southampton, Ian Wallace said: "We are naturally disappointed and frustrated that a decision on our proposals for Ganger Farm has been deferred, particularly as this scheme would provide huge sporting benefits for Romsey."

He added: "We understand that the council had little option other than to defer the decision following a very late objection on behalf of another developer. This objection seeks to obstruct the planning process but we will work with the council over the coming weeks to ensure that it is robustly addressed so that the application can be determined at the earliest opportunity."

Councillors who were due to debate the 275 home scheme were also shocked at its deferral.

Romsey's Mark Cooper said: "I am disappointed at this, but I was told that they need more consultations on amendments."

Outgoing Romsey mayor Peter Hurst said he didn't really know why the application had been taken off the committee's agenda but he did acknowledge that it was a "bit of a shock" to him when he was told.

"This has happened with one or two planning applications recently," said Mr Hurst.

Borough Romsey Extra ward councillor Alison Johnston wasn't disappointed at the deferral decision. She said: "I think that we have got to get this right. It is such an important application. I understand there are some late amendments to the plans."

Besides the 275 homes Barratt David Wilson's scheme includes open space, allotments, sports pitches and a pavilion on the former Ganger Farm pick you own site and it has been welcomed by some and criticised by others including bosses the county council owned world-famous Sir Harold Hillier Gardens which is immediately north of the site off Jermyns Lane. County bosses say that the proposed development is an "undesirable extension" of urban development and is remote from the centre of Romsey. They also claim it will have "detrimental impacts" on the setting and enjoyment of the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. Braishfield Parish Council is also opposed to the plans claiming it is "not a suitable" location and the proposed development would reduce the current green gap between Romsey and Ampfield.

Romsey and District Society is another objector. The organisation claims the proposals will "spoil the open countryside character of the area and will have a significant impact on the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens" and only 55 affordable homes have been planned in the development far below the number required in planning applications of this size.

Objections have also been received from 21 residents in Romsey, Crampmoor, Ampfield and Braishfield.

On the plus side the developer has won support from Romsey Hockey Club, Romsey Rugby Club, Braishfield Football Club and Romsey Town Youth Football Club - all of whom agree more sports facilities are needed in the area.

The application had been recommended for approval by Test Valley planners.