Plans to transform industrial site in Totton with affordable homes
A NEW development of affordable homes could be built on an industrial estate next to railway tracks in Totton, under plans unveiled by a housing association.
Christchurch-based Sovereign has applied to New Forest District Council for permission for 21 properties at Fenwicks storage yard at the end of Brokenford Lane, off Rumbridge Street.
If approved, the homes would complete efforts over several years to redevelop the wider industrial site which includes a neighbouring plot that got the go-ahead for a set of 24 open-market homes last year.
Sovereign’s three-bedroom proposals include 36 parking spaces. Ten properties would be for social, affordable or intermediate rent, and 11 for “affordable home ownership”.
Made up of four terraces, they would replace the existing 2,800 square metres of industrial space.
The scheme follows a previously approved bid for the same address, also for 21 homes, from developer Cicero Estates, which has failed to get off the ground.
The application said: “It is considered that this design builds upon and improves that previously approved for the site, transforming this brownfield industrial site to a well-designed development respecting the character, identity, and context of the area, contributing positively to local distinctiveness.
“The final scheme will deliver much-needed affordable housing to the area through a design that is respectful and representative of the locality and proposes 21 high-quality units in this highly sustainable location.”
A neighbouring patch of land to the west was approved by NFDC last year for 24 open-market houses and flats. It features a landmark clocktower and an improved route over the pedestrian rail bridge linking to Maynard Road.
The scheme by Fresh Developments Ltd contained no affordable housing but was permitted due to the cost of decontaminating the land.
NFDC is scheduled to make a decision on Sovereign’s application in early April after the deadline for public comments on 17th February.