Work begins on controversial development of 27 flats on former NHS Becton Centre on The Fairway in Barton
WORK has started on a controversial development of 27 “crucially needed” affordable homes in Barton.
AJC Group held a ground breaking ceremony at the former NHS Becton Centre on The Fairway to mark the start of construction.
There was huge controversy over the proposal during the application process, with former New Milton mayor David Hawkins claiming two years ago the site would be turned into a “hell-hole”.
David Cracklen, director of AJC Group, branded the comments as “unacceptable and inflammatory language for a man in civic office to use in a public forum”.
Speaking this week, Cllr Hawkins said he still believes it is a mistake to build the block of flats: “It is very laudable to have cheaper housing, but the original problems are still there. No parking and people in neighbouring homes being overlooked.
“The lack of car parking is going to cause one hell of a problem when they are built; it is bad enough there already.”
NFDC turned down the initial application by AJC Group for 31 flats in 2023, but subsequently approved a revised bid for 27 flats in December last year.
The design features a three-storey detached apartment building with pitched roof, along with parking and landscaping. Most of the apartments will have a balcony and some will enjoy sea views.
AJC Group says the scheme will deliver 27 “vital” energy-efficient two-bedroom apartments, helping to “address the substantial shortage of affordable housing in the New Forest region”.
It points out they have been “designed to complement the character of the area”, adding the homes will “incorporate modern, sustainable materials and feature high-specification insulation, energy-efficient heating systems, and large windows to enhance natural light”.
It says the development will also prioritise Biodiversity Net Gain, with enhanced green spaces, new planting, and ecological features such as bat boxes and hedgehog highways to promote local wildlife habitats.
David Cracklen added: “Breaking ground at the Becton Centre is a significant step forward in our mission to provide accessible and affordable homes for local people. Barton-on-Sea, like many areas across the New Forest, is crying out for affordable housing, and we are proud to be delivering a scheme that directly meets this need.”
AJC has teamed up with housing association Vivid on the scheme. Tristan Samuels, group development and new business director of Vivid, said: “This development underscores our commitment and investment in addressing the existing housing need in the New Forest.
“It highlights our longer-term commitment to working in this area, ensuring that we’ll continue to make a positive impact supporting these local communities.”
The flats will be made available for affordable rent and shared ownership through Vivid.
