Opposition is growing to development for a former army base near Winchester.

More than 40 objections have been lodged for major plans for Bushfield Camp.

The Church Commissioners submitted an application for a business park at the redundant base, unused since the late 1970s.

The scheme includes 'academic accommodation', a hotel, retail, parking, sport and community hub, landscaping and public realm works. 

More than half would be retained as chalk downland open space.

By Tuesday, November 14, 41 objections had been submitted to Winchester City Council. On the city council planning portal, one comment, from Pauline Morrod, had been incorrectly marked as a support. 

Two supporting and one neutral comment have been submitted.

READ MORE: Bushfield Camp: Plan submitted to Winchester City Council

Ms Morrod, of Kerrfield, said: “I object to this scheme because I feel this is an ideal location to build a new hospital.

“Winchester's population is burgeoning and the threat of closure of A and E and the hospital is very worrying. As it is, the town centre needs regeneration - not taking more custom to the outskirts. 

“Bushfield should be the site of a new hospital - not this scheme.”

Hampshire Chronicle: Bushfield Camp CGI

Penny Lawrence, of Lowden Close, Badger Farm, said: “I object to the proposed development of Bushfield Camp.

“Transport is the greatest cause of climate-harming emissions in this climate emergency. I found the consultations were very slow to even address the issue of the cars coming to the site.

“I do not want to see these multi-storey building blocks on a fine hilltop adjoining the South Downs National Park.

“I live nearby in Badger Farm and use the site and know it is used and appreciated by a range of people from a range of ages.”

SEE ALSO: Bushfield Camp: Early opinion split over major development

Elizabeth Eastham, of Bere Close, Weeke, said: “I welcome this application as a step forward for Winchester. I have lived here for more than 25 years and can count on the fingers of one hand the number of major project proposals which have actually got underway in that time. 

“The site is currently an eyesore and although I occasionally walk there with friends/family, I would be scared to be there alone. Its position on the edge of the city is ideal in bringing jobs and much needed facilities to the area with minimal impact on the city centre. I would strongly support a mixed-use development with an eye to nature and the environment.”

Should the scheme be permitted, work will start next year and last for around 11 years. 

Bushfield Camp was used by the Army during the Second World War. The camp was closed in the 1970s.

To view the application online, search 23/02507/OUT on Winchester City Council's planning portal.