TALKS about one of Croydon's longest-running planning battles were due to take place behind closed doors last night (Thursday) as the Advertiser went to press.

Croydon Council's planning committee was due to discuss plans to build flats opposite Norwood Junction "in camera".

Campaigners opposed to the development initially thought the application had been taken off the agenda.

They are angry that the meeting is being held in private as a big group of protesters was due to attend to show the strength of opposition to the scheme.

Developer Greathall Limited wants to build 11 flats, with two units on the ground floor for retail use, at the rear of 29 to 33 Station Road.

Mechanic Richard Hough is likely to lose the car-repair business Autoclutch if the planning application, which was deferred in July, goes ahead.