A YOUNG farming couple will be allowed to site a mobile home on their holding for three years.

Dan George applied for the home at King George Farm, off Stakes Lane, Upham.

He said it was needed for a manager to be on site 24 hours a day at their beef suckler unit.

Planning officer Lisa Booth told the planning committee that professional advisors Bruton Knowles said the business was viable and supported the need for a worker to live there.

The planning committee heard that both Mr George and his partner were employed at Manor Farm Country Park near Hedge End and had launched a breeding business on eight hectares funded from their savings and with the support of family members.

But there have been seven objections from local people. Ali Harrison addressed the committee. She said the home was visually intrusive, the business case was weak, and the home had been moved onto the land without permission.

Cllr Therese Evans, chairman of the planning committee, said: "That mobile home is very visible in the landscape." Referring to young saplings planted, "I don't know whey they have planted around it; perhaps part of a stewardship scheme."

Cllr Frank Pearson agreed: "I have never seen a mobile home like this. It is like a chicken shed with wheels. Must it be in this location?"

In debate Cllr Evans, who sits on the planning committee of the South Downs National Park, said: "Our hands are tied. It is temporary and Bruton Knowles have supported the need for this. I know it is annoying people bringing in mobile homes without planning permission but that is what they are asking for now.

"I have expressed irritation about how visible it is in the South Downs National Park but our hands are tied given that it is not going to be there for ever."

Eight councillors voted in favour of the plan with one abstention.