A decision on whether 30 new homes should be built in Liss has been put on hold as disagreements continue over affordable housing numbers.

The South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) has lauded Property Experts Ltd for its “well-designed” proposals to develop land south of Inwood Road.

But the authority has been less impressed with the lack of affordable housing – with the firm originally insisting it would be unviable to provide any on the 0.9 hectare site.

While their stance has changed slightly, the 10 per cent being offered by the applicants – three houses – is still less than the six the SNDPA would like on the greenfield site between Newman Collard, Liss Junior School and East Hill House.

The scheme was therefore recommended for refusal last week in Midhurst, only for planning committee members to agree to a deferral with the developer open to further negotiations.

Ben Baldwin, representing the landowners, said the plans made an “efficient use” of the “challenging site” before defending their stance on affordable housing, stressing that topography, drainage, landscaping and infrastructure affected the scheme’s viability.

He said: “We are prepared to engage constructively on an appropriate affordable housing contribution, but that contribution must reflect the actual economics of delivering this scheme.”

Upon hearing that discussions are still ongoing, Robert Mocatta, called for a deferral with fellow member, Andrew Shaxson, and others agreeing.

He said: “It does appear from what the applicants, agents and others have said it that they’re willing to talk – we’ve got a fixed position and theirs could be flexible.”

“We can’t just be expected to agree to a level of affordable housing that is half what our independent advisor is saying is possible,” added Antonia Cox.

Find out about planning applications that affect you by visiting the Public Notice Portal.

Residents also raised concerns about access off Inwood Road and the potential loss of a dozen parking spaces.