A LAST-minute bid to stall a decision on the Northern Quarter development in Cinderford failed.

A solicitor's letter on behalf of Forest of Dean Friends of the Earth arrived at the council offices just half an hour before the planning committee was to discuss two key applications.

The letter, calling for the decision to be put off until a judicial review of the process is decided, was passed to a barrister who advised the application could be dealt with.

The committee overwhelmingly supported the two schemes at Steam Mills Road and on the former Northern United site.

Two outline planning applications were submitted by the Homes and Communities Agency one of which was for around 40 new business units at Northern United with a new access off the A4136.

The other was for two new purpose-built buildings at the Forest Vale industrial park and planned improvements along Newtown Road and its junction with Broadmoor Road.

Supporters warned that the future prosperity of the Cinderford and the Forest would be damaged if the plans were not approved.

But opponents claimed that assessments required by law about the impact on wildlife had not been carried out.

Environmental campaigner David Priddis claimed that the development would have a major impact on protected wildlife and there was no guarantee that features to help animals would work.

Cllr Phillip Burford said there was one endangered species that would be threatened if permission was not granted – "the Cinderford job".

The Forest had missed the boat to boost employment more than a decade ago.

He added: "There are many youngsters out there without a job.

"It would be bordering on the criminal if we do not go full-steam ahead on this."

David Warburton, of the Homes and Communities Agency, said no bodies that had by law to be consulted had objected to the proposals.

He added: "I believe passionately this will be a positive change for the community."