Developers have confirmed they are set to press ahead with plans for 64 new homes in Swanmore.

Persimmon Homes South Coast received approval for the development in New Road in May last year, despite receiving some 40 objections.

Residents cited the destruction of green space and extra burden on the existing road network as some of the potential issues posed by the plan.

Despite this, councillors unanimously backed the scheme, and company bosses have now confirmed their plan for the site, which they say will bring significant investment in local infrastructure and job creation to the area.

The six-acre plot, which is just a stone's throw from Swanmore College, will incorporate a range of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes, with 25 of the properties transferred to a Housing Association partner, along with open green spaces and a public play area.

Sharon Eckford, land director for Persimmon Homes South Coast, said: “We are pleased to confirm our plans for this development, which will deliver much-needed new homes for local people alongside financial contributions to support the community.

“More than £327,000 will be paid towards improvements to school facilities and an employment and skills plan will aid training and development, supporting construction jobs for local people.

“This development has the potential to support up to 198* jobs – both those directly employed in building the site, and indirectly through the supply chain and additional spending within the neighbourhood.”

Over £390,000 has been pledged by Persimmon as a community infrastructure levy, to enable the local authority to deliver the specific additional infrastructure needed in the area, along with almost £71,000 towards affordable housing within the district.

The company has said it will also fund the monitoring of the adjacent sites of importance for nature conservation and make a nitrates mitigation contribution to offset the impact of the development and ensure it is nitrate ‘neutral’.

The site is allocated for housing and development under Winchester City Council’s local plan and will provide access to the remainder of the allocated housing to the east of the site.

Sharon Eckford added: “Our plans include homes to suit a range of buyers, from those looking to get onto the property ladder for the first time to families seeking more space.

“We hope to commence work on site later in the year.”

For information on Persimmon Homes’ current developments visit persimmonhomes.com