A LANDMARK decision on an 18-month planning row was headed off at the last minute when new information came before councillors.

Test Valley planners were due to make a final decision on whether 13 homes should be built on a plot of land in Botley Road, North Baddesley. Protesters turned out in droves to the crucial planning meeting, at Romsey's council offices in Duttons Road.

They were steeled for a controversial "yes" vote after planning officers recommended that councillors approve the scheme, which was first discussed more than a year ago. But when the meeting got under way, they were told the application had been pulled just an hour beforehand.

Council officials told planners more information had come to light that had to be investigated before a decision could be made.

Campaigners are now pressing for more delays to give nature experts a chance to search for bats and badgers. If any rare species are found on the site, it could mean the land is saved for good. Test Valley councillor Alan Dowden said: "Information has come to me since the viewing panel meeting that in fact the site should be surveyed for wildlife."

KingsOak Homes wants to knock down three houses on the plot and build 12 two-storey homes and a chalet.

The company has infuriated residents by advertising the new homes in the Southern Property Advertiser before planning permission was even approved. The company declined to comment.