Pennyfarthing Homes makes changes to plan for Brockhills Lane, New Milton

A DEVELOPER has made changes to proposals for a controversial development of 166 properties on the edge of New Milton.

After talks with New Forest District Council, Pennyfarthing Homes has deleted three units from the original application for greenbelt land off Brockhills Lane.

It said it has also revised highways plans amid concerns over the impact of so many new residents on the local roads, which contributed to more than 400 objections being lodged with NFDC as well as opposition from the town council.

When the proposals were first revealed last September, they featured 169 homes but locals expressed concerns the local infrastructure, schools and doctors surgeries would struggle to cope.

The latest objection from Liz Aldridge, who manages Stanleys Holiday Centre on Brockhills Lane, said: “If there are alternative sites where such impact is minimised I believe they should be considered.

“I also agree with the comments made by local residents regarding the inadequacy of the local roads to deal with the inevitable increase in traffic and the risk posed to the safety of all road users, particularly pedestrians.”

The developer has retained its pledge for 50% (83) to be affordable dwellings, including 21 as “first homes” – discounted properties for first-time buyers with a local connection to help them onto the property ladder.

Ben Arnold, Pennyfarthing’s land and planning director, said: “We are pleased with progress on the application and that the delivery of this important allocated housing site is taking a step closer to being realised.

“Where objections were made on the potential effects of the development on the local road network, additional work has been undertaken at the request of the local highway authority.

“We have been keen to respond positively to feedback to ensure that this development reflects aspirations for the character and appearance of the area.”

He added Pennyfarthing would continue to “work with the council and others to help realise the potential of this site”.

Pennyfarthing has suggested paying New Forest District Council £978,500 towards local infrastructure projects.

Hampshire County Council is seeking around £1.2m of funding towards local schools.

The revised application has kept accessible open spaces and play areas, pedestrian and cycle connections, electric vehicle charging points.

The location is a strategic housing site identified in NFDC’s Local Plan of development policies.

A decision by NFDC is expected in the coming months.