A right decision on Stonehenge was finally taken by ministers last month – after many expensive mishaps.

Now, at Avebury, within the same World Heritage Site, (Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites), a very damaging decision is about to be taken by the Local Authority – to allow five three-bedroom houses to be built almost up against the monument’s great bank. (Bond’s Garage, Swindon Road, Avebury, Application No. K/57449/F.)

Despite strong objections from English Heritage, the National Trust, the Wilshire Archaeological and Natural History Society, the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England, ICOMOS-UK, and several other qualified organisations, we hear that officials are recommending approval: the decision comes up on January 10th – i.e. this coming Thursday.

Supporters of the plans dislike the existing mess, which can perfectly well be cleared up without building five new commuter houses within the World Heritage Site.

This should be called in for Public Enquiry.