A Chessington community is bracing itself for a High Court battle next month, as it challenges a property developer who wants to build seven houses in the place of just two.
The planning application for Somerset Avenue was refused by Kingston councillors last year, but an independent inspector overturned the decision and granted permission.
Kingston Council launched a legal challenge after councillors feared a precedent could be set for “garden grabbing”.
It is the first time the council has launched a legal challenge in more than three years and, if it loses, the cost to the taxpayer will run into thousands of pounds.
The hearing has been scheduled for February 24.
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