made within weeks.

The appeal by six neighbours against the granting of planning permission for the Fair Havens Christian Care centre has been considered by an independent planning inspector this week. The inspector, over from the UK, has considered written applications over the case -- which involves a 16-bed unit proposed for former tourist accomodation at Verdmont Road, Smiths.

On his return to the UK, a report and recommendation will be sent to Environment Minister Harry Soares within three weeks, who will then make a final decision on the appeal.

Fair Havens want to use the units for women recovering from drug and alcohol dependencies, moving from their smaller Victoria Street base.

The planning inspectors have considered several cases during their stay, as part of a process designed to make the whole appeals process fairer and more independent in the eyes of the public.

Two have been held in public, objections from neighbours to planned renovations at Rosemont guest house in Pembroke and another over a nursery school.

PLANNING PLN