Test Valley planners have permitted a scheme for two new village homes, despite local objections. 

The development will see the new buildings in Farley Street, Nether Wallop.

One will replace an existing home and the other an outbuilding in the garden. 

Concerns had been raised over the potential impact on the character of the area. 

Despite this, Test Valley Borough Council's southern area planning committee approved it on Tuesday, December 19. 

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Hampshire Chronicle: Claudia Pearce

An objection by Nether Wallop Parish Council said: “Impact on the public right of way – the hedge has been planted on this rather than within the garden and this should be rectified. The subdivision of the plot would leave plot two narrower than surrounding dwellings. Increased ridge height of dwellings would result in them being prominent from the road and public right of way. Overdevelopment of the site. No need for two five bedroom dwellings. Development would result in an increase in traffic. Design and materials are not in keeping with the area.”

Objector Claudia Pearce, of Farley Street, said: “This is in the conservation area and it's against local policy. I would have no objection if it was one house, but two is overdevelopment. 

“It's not traditional in design. The proposal is incongruent with the rest of the properties. It will be very conspicuous. We believe it will be an eyesore in this part of the village. The design will result in the degradation of a designated heritage asset. This application should be rejected in its current form.”

Planning agent Dan Roycroft said: “The replacement house will be on the same footprint as the existing house. Plot two will be on the same footprint as the outbuilding. 

“The houses are in keeping with the character of the area. They are set well back in the plot. They will cause no visual impact. They are two high-quality homes that will cause no material harm to the area.”

In the planning officers' report, it said: “In conclusion it is considered that the proposal accords with the relevant policies of the TVBR Local Plan, and the policies of the emerging Neighbourhood Plan and is recommended for permission subject to conditions.”

The committee voted in favour, by 10 to one.