More than 70 objections have been submitted over plans for five homes in a village near Winchester.

Alfred Homes has applied for the homes to replace the existing house at Torf House, Shepherds Lane in Compton.

The objections centre around the design of the homes and safety concerns at the junctions at Hurdle Way and Shepherds Lane with Otterbourne Road.

Cllr Jan Warwick has called the application in, to be debated by the planning committee. 

In an objection, Cllr Warwick said: “Compton Down is distinguished by its large, detached houses situated within spacious gardens, which are deliberately arranged in a linear relationship to one another. In stark contrast, the proposed development, particularly in relation to Shepherds Lane, fails to adhere to the existing low-density character of the area. Back-filled development is not a characteristic of this neighbourhood, and the residents strongly believe in preserving the unique charm and tranquillity that defines Shepherds Lane and Compton Down.

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“Furthermore, the safety of the junctions at Hurdle Way and Shepherds Lane with the 40mph Otterbourne Road is a paramount concern. Recent accidents, such as the one on May 23, have only intensified residents' worries about the potential escalation of traffic and the increased risks associated with entering and exiting Compton Down due to the proposed multi-dwelling developments.

“Due to the significant number of concerns raised and the number of objectors I have called this application to the planning committee for a decision should the planning officer be mindful to approve in this case.”

On June 26, 76 objections had been submitted.

Hampshire Chronicle: Sketch of plan for one of the homes

Christopher Richmond, of Shepherds Lane, said: “The application is ill-conceived, lacks sensitivity to the unique rural setting, fails to address the significant ongoing highway issues and does not respect the existing building pattern. The existing planning policy and guidance has not been followed and it fails to make a positive contribution to the character of the area or complement the local community.”

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Judith Burns, of Field Close, said: “The access and internal roads in Compton Down are already dangerous and more building development and additional traffic on small roads with no pavements or street lighting would hugely increase the existing problem.

“The density, position and design of these houses are completely different to the existing houses on the close and would radically change the character of the area from a green to an urban landscape with a loss of biodiversity.”

On the planning statement, submitted by Alfred Homes, it said: “The architecture proposed is classical in nature, but varied, providing for five individual properties that are distinct from one another. This approach is intentional to complement the local environs and the individual nature of the properties within Compton. 

“The planning application has been supported by a detailed landscape and transport appraisal, the latter of which has charted the recent approvals and responses of the Highway Authority, that provide a clear direction of travel of supporting planning applications for such development, whether that be a net gain in dwellings or extensions to existing land uses or properties. I would refer the authority to the report for details.”

Alfred Homes has been approached for further comment.

To view the application online, search 23/01181/FUL on Winchester City Council's planning portal.