A planning dispute over four new homes in Rickmansworth, more than a decade in the making, is being discussed at a public inquiry today.

Henry Homes PLC has been refused approval for the scheme in Nightingale Road ten times by Three Rivers District Council, which has also fought off several appeals.

This morning a public enquiry, chaired by the Government’s planning inspectorate, is taking place at Three Rivers House, where Henry Homes hope to finally gain planning permission.

The scheme would involve the demolition of 63 Nightingale Road, to build four detached house on the land rear to numbers 61-65, which would be accessed by a driveway from the main road.

Council planner Laurence Moore, said: “Punching a 15 meter long drive to access a cluster of houses causes harm to the conservation are and cannot preserve or enhance it as a matter of principal, as well as a matter of fact.”

Barrister Mark Beard, representing Henry Homes, is currently cross examining the council's witnesses.