A planning inquiry heard from people who live in Backwell that they see Farleigh Fields – a piece of agricultural land leading up to the village church - as vital to the well-being of residents.

Persimmon Homes were refused planning permission for 125 houses on the fields, demolishing two homes to provide access. The sloping site is farmland also used by walkers and local people near the Grade 1 listed church.

The Planning Inspector is hearing an appeal against the refusal. Persimmon Homes has tried on five occasions to get permission on the field. The last attempt was in 2018 when it was vetoed by the Secretary of State.

Barbara Harland, formerly the village Cubs Mistress, told how children enjoyed the fields and its tranquillity was vital to the mental health of the village.

She said: “Once it is gone it will be gone forever with the loss of good agricultural land.” She described Farleigh Fields as a treasure enjoyed by the whole village.

Michael Mogford, said he fears that flooding of houses nearby would become more frequent if building on the fields takes place. He pointed out that the whole village uses the fields and the plan had received more than 400 letters of objection.

Local Cllr Bridget Petty, said the continual putting in of planning applications on the site was a drain on local people who just wanted to live their lives.

Chris Perry, told how he was involved in drawing up the original Backwell Neighbourhood Plan. Backwell was one of the first villages in the country to come up with a document saying where they wanted new building to take place. He said Farleigh Fields was outside the settlement boundary and the document should be followed by the inspector.

Mike Rose, representing Backwell Residents Association, said that if the houses planned were built it was possible that the remaining fields would not be viable to use as agriculture.

Martin Powell said that North Somerset Council is about to consult on its Local Plan. He said: “This appeal is a cynical attempt at exploiting a window of opportunity by Persimmon before that plan is in place. Farleigh Fields should remain out of the settlement boundary and for all to enjoy and not become Farleigh Housing Estate.”

The Inquiry will continue next week.