New Forest District Council approves 178-home scheme by Hurst Castle Ltd in Gore Road, New Milton

PLANS to build 178 homes on greenbelt land in New Milton have been unanimously approved.

Hurst Castle Ltd wants to develop a 10-acre plot off Gore Road, between Double H Nurseries and The Barn restaurant. The site is allocated in the New Forest District Council’s Local Plan for at least 160 homes and public open space.

The application for outline permission, which was discussed by the NFDC’s planning committee, states 37 properties would be allocated as affordable – 21% of the total scheme – which would be a mixture of shared ownership and affordable rent.

Existing access from Gore Road would remain.

The plans were backed by New Milton Town Council despite residents’ objections over speeding vehicles and increased HGV movements.

Many also felt local schools and GP surgeries would be further stretched by an influx of new pupils and patients.

The application attracted 20 letters of objection, with concerns over an increase in traffic, pollution, the impact on wildlife and potential flooding.

Two letters of support said housing was needed in the area and would bring economic benefits.

Speaking at the planning meeting, Cllr Kate Crisell said she was in favour of the “very well planned out” scheme, while Cllr Allan Glass praised the design, adding: “I look forward to seeing the finalised plans.”