Fears of impact of new homes on 'tranquility' of Hordle campsite open for 40 years

CUSTOMERS of a Hordle campsite operating for 40 years fear its “peace and tranquillity” will be ruined if plans are allowed for 10 houses nearby.

There has been a campsite at Dragonfly Stables since the 1980s, with its secluded character earning a designation as a “hideaway” site by the Caravan and Camping Club.

But there are worries that quietness will be lost if the mini-estate, at the rear of Grassmere House, off Sky End Lane, is given the go-ahead by New Forest District Council.

It has been opposed by the campsite owner, 15 objectors and Hordle Parish Council which warned of a “dangerous” access to the narrow Sky End Lane.

But the developer, Addis Homes Group Ltd, said the scheme would provide five affordable homes and “preserves the setting of the local area”.

Quentin Twiss, who owns Dragonfly Stables, said in his objection to NFDC: “Our land has been used as a small campsite for 40 years. Our visitors bring us important income and contribute to the local and wider economy.”

He warned the “peace and quiet, wildlife and general ambience of Hordle village” would be lost to “increased noise and light pollution”.

One campsite customer added: “The campsite is situated in an area of natural beauty, which is why my family and I have enjoyed coming here for so many years.

“The proposed development would not only impact the environment, but it would also detract from the peace and tranquillity that we have come to appreciate.”

Another said: “The loss or disturbance of wildlife including owls, badgers, deer and a wide selection of birds will be unforgivable.”

The application is for four two-bedroom houses, two three-bedroom homes, and four four-bedroom houses along with 26 parking spaces.

Addis Homes’ application said: “The proposal preserves the setting of the local area and the neighbouring residential properties.”

It added: “Sky End Lane is currently a relatively lightly trafficked road, and it is not anticipated that there will be significant additional traffic generated by the proposed development that will adversely affect road safety or the ability of the transport infrastructure to accommodate the

traffic.”