IT is the major housing scheme that could reshape the future of Alresford.

An outline planning application for 320 homes along with 3.4 hectares of employment land and public open space has now officially been submitted to Winchester City Council.

However the plan has previously made some residents concerned about its impact, as many called for different housing sites in Alresford rather than just one off Sun Lane.

The scheme by Seaward Properties for land east of Sun Lane in the town has been in the pipeline for years, and has been the focus of many town council meetings.

Under the scheme, 40 per cent of the homes are affordable and there would also be 3.4 hectares of employment land, and new open space.

Other improvements include an 'all-moves' roundabout from the A31 and the realignment of Sun Lane and the provision of additional school facilities including a Park and Stride'.

The plans form part of Alresford's local plan for the Winchester District Ward councillor for Alresford and the Itchen Valley at Winchester City Council, Lisa Griffiths who is also the former chairman of Alresford Town Council has said she welcomes the news the planning application has been submitted.

Cllr Griffiths said: "I do welcome the news, it really brings certainty.

"It has been an issue for a long time not knowing where the homes are going, we as councillors need to make sure it is the best it can be and it will deliver what it says it will deliver.

"That junction on the A31 is an absolute must, the open space is wonderful and that is going to fabulous with the amount of land.

Meanwhile, fellow Alresford councillor Kim Gottlieb said: "Personally, I preferred the option whereby Alresford's planned future housing supply was spread over several sites, but the current Seaward proposal is what complies with the local plan, in principle.

"As local councillors, the job that I, Lisa Griffiths and Ernie Jeffs have, is to ensure that the scheme is as good as it can be, and that it properly delivers on affordable housing and infrastructure.

  "Eventually the benefits will filter through to Alresford, but there is a lot of work to do beforehand. "

Some residents weren't quite so positive and highlighting concerns about the plans were Stuart and Linda Bingham who said: "So our concerns are that the current access via Sun Lane and Nursery Road will not be suitable for the additional inhabitants of the new housing scheme.

"We foresee significant issues and a rise in hazards.  Also, access for emergency services and council refuse vehicles could be restricted at peak times."

Land and Planning Director of Seaward Properties, Steve Culpitt said: "“Throughout we have been committed to supporting New Alresford Town Council’s and the local communities’ aspiration for the town, where practicable, on the Sun Lane site.”

“The preference for a large area of natural parkland, which will include cut grass walking and cycling trails and wildflower and long grass meadows, has been incorporated.

"A Park and Stride will be introduced to the south of the open space. We are also in discussion about safeguarding land for a community building next to the Park and Stride."