Plan for seven homes on Barton Common Road will 'attract younger population to the area'

A DEVELOPER seeking to demolish a large house at Barton and build seven homes said the scheme would help attract a younger population to the area.

The application to New Forest District Council has come from Westcoast Developments at Becton Rough in Barton Common Road.

It said the plan’s objectives include a vision to “create a more balanced population by reducing the difference in population numbers between the 20-40 age group and 65-plus age group”.

The proposed six four-bedroom houses and one three-bedroom one would also be in line with New Milton’s Neighbourhood Plan of hyperlocal planning guidance, it said.

At present there is a two-storey dwelling on the site. Each of the new homes would have a garage with electric car charging point, plus another two car parking spaces.

There will also be bicycle storage for four bikes.

The houses would be in three blocks with the second storey of some homes having balconies.

Westcoast Developments said he proposed buildings have a “design philosophy which works in harmony with the varied character of the locality”.

It added: "The scheme has been carefully conceived to respect and enhance the character of the area as well as the desire to maintain a good relationship with neighbouring properties and achieve a positive assimilation into the street scene.”

NFDC will make a decision next year.