CONFUSION has arisen over whether or not a controversial planning application has been given permission.

In September it was reported that planning officials at Stroud District Council had given the thumbs up to an application from developers George Wimpey to build 41 dwellings on the Charfield Road in Kingswood.

The application had faced fierce opposition from residents who feared the local infrastructure could not cope with such an influx in population. There were also concerns about flooding.

However, three months down the line and councillors on Kingswood Parish Council have claimed they have had no notification from the district council or the developers to confirm the application has been granted or explaining the terms of the build.

David Rockey, chairman of Kingswood Parish Council, said: "They may still be agreeing over details but they could at least have the decency to let us know. It was decided several months ago and we still haven't heard anything.

"This is completely unsatisfactory the way the parish has been treated.

"The planning committee has approved the plans but no one seems to know what is in them."

Paul Hemming, Stroud district councillor for Kingswood, said: "They've got the permission but now it has gone quiet it makes no sense. All we want is someone to tell us what is going on."

A spokesman for Stroud District Council said: "Permission was granted subject to a section 106 agreement being drawn up.

"Technically the development hasn't been given permission because the agreement hasn't been finalised.

"The district council cannot notify the parish about whether the development has been approved or not until this has been resolved.

"The section 106 agreement relates to the developer putting money to the local education authority toward education, making a contribution for off-site recreation facilities within the village and including affordable housing within the development."

Gregg Wilkinson, land and planning director for George Wimpey Bristol, was unable to offer any explanation for the delay.

He said: "We hope to secure planning permission in the near future with a view to developing a mixture of residential properties."