Wates Development wants NFDC’s permission to build 200 new homes in Holbury

HOLBURY residents are being urged to have their say over plans to build 200 new homes in the village.

Wates Development wants permission from New Forest District Council to build the new properties alongside 46 acres of open land south of Rollestone Road.

As reported by the A&T, the site, known as Lynwood Farm, was run by brothers John and George Orman, and once boasted a large collection of vintage farm machinery including many tractors and engines.

However, neither of the brothers married and, following their deaths, the huge collection was auctioned by Thimbleby & Shorland in 2018.

If the new building scheme gets the go-ahead, 70 of the properties would be classified as affordable, with the development comprising a mix of housing “types, sizes and tenures”.

A spokesperson for the developer said the accessible open space as part of the development would include 21 acres of “alternative natural recreation greenspace” to complement the New Forest Special Protection Area. Plans are still in their early stages as the team is yet to submit an outline planning application to NFDC.

The spokesperson continued: “It is increasingly difficult for local people in the New Forest to find a suitable place to live. As set out in the council’s Local Plan, new housing needs to come forward in a timely fashion, but unfortunately delivery has been lagging behind.

“We believe that this site could help to address local need by bringing forward a beautiful development for a diverse range of people, that would fit well into its surroundings.

“To complement the site’s excellent location, we will be utilising our new sustainability strategy to ensure sustainability is at the heart of the development, using technologies such as solar panels and air source heat pumps, alongside travel initiatives such as a car club and electric vehicle charging points.

“The extensive green spaces will provide for biodiversity and would include areas of new native woodland, a community orchard, allotments and children’s play areas.

“We would like to hear from local residents about how they feel about the plans, and we encourage everyone to get in touch and let us know their views.”

To give feedback on the proposed development, visit watesholbury.co.uk