THE future of a disused garden nursery near Winchester has been discussed with residents for the first time.

Holmes Nursery officially closed on Friday (September 25) after the business was sold to Hillier Nurseries and Garden Centres.

The site spans almost seven acres on the edge of Littleton, and owners Judi and Colin Holmes want to know what residents think should be done with it.

The couple held a community engagement event on the day of the closure, and with the help of planners put forward four potential ideas: employment use, mixed housing and employment, residential use, and mixed use employment, including a care home and housing.

Jeoff Jones, 67, a builder, of North Drive, said: “I have lived in Littleton for 56 years and the village has changed drastically. Doing nothing with the nursery isn’t an option unfortunately, and something has to be done with it.

“Out of the four options I quite like the thought of a care home mixed with housing. My main concern is with access.”

The former nursery’s main access is through South Drive – a quiet residential road – and residents were concerned of the affects of potential development.

A South Drive resident, who asked not to be named, said: “I came here for the village environment and I don’t want houses at the front and side. We are used to peace and quiet here. I knew it would happen at some stage.”

Colin Holmes said: “Things change and you have got to move forward.

“We want to involve the community as much as we can and it’s for the community to put their views in, and what they would like to see.”

Residents filled in feedback forms which planners will analysis before further exhibitions later this year.