THE future of Poole’s controversial Talbot Heath development hangs in the balance once again.

A planning inquiry, called in by Local Government Secretary Eric Pickles – who has the power to halt approved development at the site – started yesterday.

Supporters and opponents of the sprawling project, which already enjoys Borough of Poole backing, will lock horns during the three week public hearing, presided over by planning inspector Wendy Burden.

The investigation, called after Poole planners approved Talbot Village Trust’s application for 378 homes and 450 student units, is taking place at Hamworthy Recreation Club, Magna Road, Canford Magna.

The main objectors to the development of the farm and heathland site, which borders Poole and Bournemouth, are Natural England, the RSPB and Bournemouth Borough Council.

Residents’ associations are also vehemently opposed to the scheme, and representatives of these organisations will give evidence as the enquiry gathers pace.

Speaking at day one of the inquiry, Cllr Stephen Chappell, Bournemouth councillor for Talbot and Branksome Woods, said he had personally received more than 100 letters of objection to the application.

“Any development must not harm the residential amenities of people living nearby through overlooking, loss of privacy and noise and disturbance,” he said.

Angry residents have presented a 1,214 strong petition and Bournemouth Borough Council has raised concerns about traffic congestion.

Speaking for the Talbot Village Trust, which is behind the plans-, Christopher Katkowski QC, said: “This has attracted what appears to be, at least to us, more than its fair share of controversy although the planning authority, Borough of Poole, has resolved to grant permission.

“Leaving aside, just for a few moments, the ecological issues and the transportation issues – which between them will occupy nearly all of the inquiries’ time – local residents associations and representatives have raised a number of other concerns about the proposals.

“None of these, we say, should stand in the way of permission being granted.”

The development, on land south of Wallisdown Road, also includes 3,500sq meters of academic floor space and has the support of Bournemouth University and the Arts College University.

An evening session takes place on July 20, from 6.30 to 8.30pm, for residents.

The inquiry is due to finish on July 28.