Bargates Homes' plan for 97 new dwellings on fields near Everton Road in Hordle approved by New Forest District Council

PLANS to build 97 new homes on fields in Hordle have been approved by New Forest District Council.

The scheme by Bargate Homes, which proposed a mixture of houses and flats on former greenbelt land near Everton Road, was voted through by the planning committee this morning (Wednesday).

The application for the 6.67-hectare site, which was allocated for at least 100 homes in NFDC’s Local Plan document, has marked 49 properties as "affordable".

It had been recommended for permission by planning officers as an "attractive scheme releasing much-needed housing" – but received 81 objections, with four in support.

Concerns included highway safety, the impact on local schools, shops and health services and the loss of trees.

There were also fears it was an overdevelopment of the site and out of character.

Those in support welcomed the affordable provision and opportunity for young families to move to the area.

Cllr Malcolm Wade said it was "conflicting" as there was clear opposition locally.

But he added: "But we do need to build houses – from a planning perspective I can't see any reason not to support the application."

Cllr Anne Corbridge added: "The problem with all these strategic sites is that no one wants them on their doorstep.

"But in our hearts we know these developments are required."

Cllr Maureen Holding said she was against the plans and added: "When there are 85 representations and 81 are against it, it really should tell us something.

"I cannot support something like this that nobody local wants.

"We have to come up with something better – this doesn't fulfil what local people want."

Hordle Parish Council had also objected to the plans, and said residents were concerned about the loss of a village atmosphere.

It said: "The parish council and residents are concerned that this development will affect the residential amenity of properties near to this proposed development and in the village.

"The felling of large established trees will lead to visual intrusion and affect the rural nature of the area. Additional traffic movements will negatively impact neighbouring properties."

The scheme also includes 213 parking spaces which are a mixture of allocated and non-allocated and access from Everton Road.

Initial proposals for the site were for 103 new dwellings with an access road also from Silver Street.

Informal and formal public open space on the site would include a children's play area, meadow and dog walking area.