A COUNCIL chief defended her authority’s opposition to a ski slope plan after being quizzed by the founder of a Facebook group campaigning for it to re-open.

Councillor Jean Teesdale said Wycombe District Council was right to throw out a plan to re-open Wycombe Summit, closed after a 2005 fire.

Its fate now lies with an independent inspector.

She said the re-development plans built too far into nearby woodland at Abbey Barn Road, giving councillors ‘significant concerns’.

Cllr Teesdale, cabinet member for planning, said: “I hope, I think we all hope a satisfactory solution be found.”

Snowboarder Melanie Codling told Cllr Teesdale the plan ‘appears to have the public’s backing’ with more than 2,100 members of the Facebook group.

She said: “Surely developing this site, which is currently a depressing eyesore would be in the best interest of our council?

“The benefits that could be reaped from approving this project would not only be in the interest of the community of High Wycombe, but would also provide opportunities for local businesses and schools and could help to promote and encourage sports and fitness all year round.”

The appeal will be heard by the independent Planning Inspectorate on March 16 the council’s offices in Queen Victoria Road. The public are welcome to attend.

Click the links below to visit the Facebook group and read Miss Codling’s speech to the council.