PROTESTERS against a massive housing development south of Banbury are asking Cherwell District Council to call a public inquiry.

Plans for 1,070 houses at Bodicote/Bankside were approved by the council in February, and last month the Office of Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott refused to order an inquiry.

Now, Bob Madge, chairman of the Cherwell Heights Action Group which opposes the development has written to George Reynolds, the council's executive member for development, asking him to organise a public examination of the proposals.

The letter said: "Cherwell council is now the only arbiter on 20,000 objections to the development. This makes a mockery of any claim of a democratic process. Cherwell becomes a 'judge in its own cause' which is a direct contravention of the Human Rights Act."

The letter also asked Mr Reynolds to hold a public meeting if he refused a public inquiry.

It said: "A meeting would enable the council to explain to residents why this development is being foisted on them without recognition of the damage it will do to the area."

Mr Reynolds said on Tuesday: "I received the letter last night and I have acknowledged it. I need to consult my officers before making a decision."