Planning chiefs will decide a controversial 80-home scheme next week.

The development, at Solomons Lane in Waltham Chase, includes commercial space and vehicle access.

It was submitted two years ago by developer Cleanslate, but has been recently amended.

Shedfield Parish Council is opposing the development. It has also had 67 public objections. 

Winchester City Council's planning committee will debate and decide the scheme on Tuesday, December 12.

Planning officers have recommended it for permission. 

In their report, it said: “It is considered that it will result in less than substantial harm to the significance of the setting and historic interest of the below ground heritage assets.

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Hampshire Chronicle: Current site off Solomons Lane

“Initial concerns over archaeological impact have been resolved and it is considered that the development could proceed subject to conditions. 

“Even if it should be considered that there are elements of non-compliance with the development plan, other material considerations, in particular the provision of much-needed market and affordable housing, outweigh any such non-compliance and thus indicate a grant of planning permission.”

Shedfield Parish Council previously said in a statement: “The parish council fully recognises that the area needs development, however the plans that are currently being reviewed by the committee are not fit for purpose. Shedfield Parish Council is completely against these plans - as they stand today.

“Many residents, organisations and agencies have highlighted the plans’ deficiencies for several years. The developers have revised the plans many times and there is now confusion of what exactly is proposed.

“For 25 years the community has known that the development is being considered and is included in the Local Plan, which incorporates employment, playing areas and open spaces.

“The development that will be presented to the planning committee is outside the agreed planning policy.”

Updates to the scheme include reducing the number of homes from 98 to 80; relocating buildings away from the prominent south-west corner of the site and additional landscaping to soften entrance to the village from the south.

It will be decided by Winchester City Council's planning committee on Tuesday, December 12.