A RETROSPECTIVE plan for a forest school in South Wonston has been recommended for refusal by city council planning officers.

Holly and Jon Wright submitted the application for the land north of Bridge Bungalow, Lower Road.

Planning officers have recommended it for refusal because they say it is in an 'unsustainable rural location'.

The officers' report said: “The development is recommended for refusal as it is considered that the proposals are unacceptable in principle in this unsustainable rural location and will also have a harmful impact on the character, appearance and tranquillity of the countryside.

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Hampshire Chronicle: South Wonston forest school

“The development is for a number of uses, including a forest school, mushroom production facility, temporary rural workers dwelling, market garden, polytunnel, parking area and freestanding solar array. While it is noted that there are positive benefits to some elements of the proposal such as the forest school, the principle of development for the proposals is unacceptable in this countryside location.

“The impact of the proposals is also considered to represent intrusive and inappropriate development in the countryside, in an unsustainable location.

“There are no material considerations that would outweigh the conflict with development plan policies identified above and the application is recommended for refusal.”

The scheme has had 25 supporting comments and two objections. 

Wayne Smith, of Radstock Road, Southampton, said: “I have been fortunate enough to visit Jolly Moon and meet the wonderful organisers. I believe their application for planning will be incredibly beneficial for the land and the local area.

“The people behind Jolly Moon are full of good heart and have the best intentions with every project I have witnessed them take on thus far.”

Catherine Hawkins, of Alresford Drove, South Wonston, said: “I would like to further reinforce my strong objection to this application/development.

“Sadly the applicants' have totally ignored the fact that an application has to be approved before works start, or you live on the land. The damage has all be done now, there is no way it can be restored back to its original state, prior to the diggers coming in, and the materials being laid. Sad for all the little animals that used to occupy it.”

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