NFDC defers decision on Pennyfarthing Homes' plans for 164 new houses at Brockhills Lane, New Milton

HIGHWAY safety concerns prompted councillors to put off a decision over 164 new homes in New Milton, of which half would be designated 'affordable'.

The application by Pennyfarthing Homes is for a site off Brockhills Lane, which is allocated in New Forest District Council's Local plan for at least 130 homes.

The 9.96-hectare site is currently used for grazing but could be developed with a mix of houses, apartments and bungalows ranging from one to four bedrooms.

It had been recommended by New Forest District Council planning officers for approval, as reported in the A&T – but planning committee members instead voted to defer a decision until discussions were had over safe crossing points.

Cllr Alan Glass said he considered the situation "very dangerous" as the lane currently had no footpath.

He added: "There will be kids on bikes, mums with prams, and people walking up and down. I think it is a brilliant idea to defer, as the rest of it I really like."

Cllr Sue Bennison said she wanted to support the application but would prefer a second access point be added to improve safety and stop the road becoming a rat-run.

New Milton Town Council has objected to the application, on the grounds it was overdevelopment.

It also raised concerns about safety from the additional traffic, poor visibility at junctions and a lack of crossing points.

NFDC received 344 letters of objection with concerns raised over the loss of greenbelt, impact on infrastructure, the layout and design.

Two letters of support praised the allocation of affordable properties.

A committee report said: "The proposed development would provide 164 houses which would make a significant contribution to the council's five-year land supply.

"The proposed development would also provide 50% affordable dwellings, which would make a significant contribution for the district where there is a deficit.

"The provision of 164 houses, of which 82 are affordable, should be given substantial weight."