A DATE for when the controversial plan to build up to 750 homes on Pincents Hill will go before a West Berkshire Council planning committee has been set.

Campaigners who oppose development at the 37-acre site are calling on all those against Blue Living's outline planning application to turn up at the district's Eastern Area Planning Committee on Wednesday, December 16.

Large numbers are expected as are passionate arguments from both sides, so instead of the usual 6.30pm slot at the Calcot Centre in Highview, the meeting will take place at 5.30pm in Little Heath School.

Founder of campaign group Save Calcot, Joan Lawrie, said she was unhappy with the early start time, adding: "West Berkshire said they must be out of the school by 10pm and that they will not change the start time.

"I know many people may not be able to leave work in time for the start but I would urge everyone to come along, even if it is just to show your face later on. We need to show the councillors how strong public opinion is or they will think that nobody cares."

Save Calcot's Tony Greenfield is expected to speak at the meeting as are representatives from Blue Living, West Berkshire councillor for Birch Copse, Joe Mooney, Tory parliamentary hopeful, Alok Sharma, and, if he can leave Westminster in time, Reading West MP Martin Salter.

At the meeting councillors will be able to approve, reject or call for the plans to go before the district-wide planning committee.

For more see this week's Reading Chronicle.