PLANS to build 50 new homes and bulldoze a well-known building in Fair Oak have been approved.

Civic chiefs in Eastleigh have given the green light to plans for 50 homes on land off Allington Lane and to the proposal to knock down the existing building known as Fair Oak Lodge.

The detached two-storey building was built in 1970s and planners said it was in a poor state of repair.

Now 50 homes, open spaces and parking spaces are set to be created at the site which is also occupied by a disused tennis court.

The plans put forward by Barrett Homes were criticised by residents.

They claimed to be concerned about the impact the development will have on traffic and wildlife and about the historic relevance of the site.

But planners in Eastleigh said the concerns were due to a confusion related to the name of the building.

And added: “For clarification, the site is occupied by a modern (1970s) dwelling which was named Fair Oak Lodge.

“The original historic building is located to the north-east and forms part of The Kings School complex.

“The site does form part of the historic garden associated with the original Fair Oak Lodge and heritage report has been submitted to support this application.”

The report recognised the lack of above-ground evidence of the historic garden at the site but confirmed that there is a potential for below-ground evidence and an investigation has been recommended.

Civic chiefs agreed that homes could reasonably be provided on-site while retaining buffers to the woodland and significant trees along the boundaries.

They also said the existing pond on site was to be retained and the existing vegetation reinforced.

The Chronicle has contacted Barrett Homes but they were unable to comment.

The proposed development is south of Bishopstoke. To the north of the village campaigners re battling plans for development between the village and Colden Common. They say the scheme would destroy open countryside, marge the two settlements and damage ancient woodland.