A DAVID and Goliath tussle is set to erupt from today at hearings into how Winchester should change over the next few years.

A public inquiry will examine the city council's Winchester District Local Plan.

It will have a major say in controversial issues such as the proposed new housing estate at Barton Farm and infill development in the suburbs.

On one side are well-funded businesses such as CALA Homes, the developer pressing to build on Barton Farm. On the other are campaign groups such as Save Barton Farm and the city residents association.

Today the association chairman Alan Weeks said: "This is a significant event for the city. People have the chance to have their say on its future. The developers will attend with ranks of professional consultants. But the city's residential and amenity groups will confront them even though we lack such resources."

Mr Weeks fears that government pressure is forcing planners to water down the policies that have protected Winchester.

He said: "If Barton Farm goes ahead, the distinctive nature of Winchester in its landscape setting will be compromised and, possibly, lost."

CALA Homes and other developers argue that there has been little housing development in Winchester since the 1980s and new homes are needed for rent, first-time buyers and key workers such as nurses and police officers. The inquiry at Winchester Guildhall is due to last until November 26.

The association is staging a public meeting on June 24. Speakers include Alan Cleaver, editor of the Hampshire Chronicle, Maurice Charrett of the association and Gavin Blackman of the Save Barton Farm group. It will be held at St Lawrence's Hall, Colebrook Street at 7.30pm