MORE than 140 objections have been lodged over plans for 270 homes on the outskirts of Romsey, despite the land not being earmarked for housing in the local plan.
Developer Gladmans submitted the proposal, for land in Halterworth Lane, at the end of January.
In just over one month, 144 people and organisations have objected. No supporting comments have been sent, by Saturday, March 9.
The application includes the potential future expansion of Halterworth Primary School, public open space, structural planting and landscaping, sustainable drainage system and access points.
The land is not earmarked for development in the latest update to the draft local plan. Romsey's MP Caroline Nokes previously objected to the plan.
Sue Mullane, on behalf of Romsey and District Society's planning committee, said: “The site lies outside the settlement boundary of Romsey as shown on the current Revised Local Plan and the Stage 18 New Local Plan. Accordingly the proposed development is contrary to the valid countryside planning policies of both the current and the emerging Local Plans.
READ MORE: Romsey planning: Gladmans plan for 270 homes in Halterworth Lane
“The character of the route and environs of the existing public right of way across the fields between Highwood Lane and Halterworth Lane would change to an unacceptable degree caused by the undesirable proposed proximity of an estate road and residential development.”
Frances Haig, of Halterworth Lane, said: "The traffic along Halterworth is frequently congested, this is a very narrow road and during peak times, when there are parked cars driving along the road is incredibly difficult.
“There is a need to decrease traffic along Halterworth lane there is an increased risk on asthma and other respiratory conditions for children.”
David Martin, also of Halterworth Lane, said: “Nobody will convince us - environmental plan or not - that after a development as proposed, that anything like the same number and variety of birds and mammals will be seen.
“The developers had neither the foresight or courtesy to propose some sort of screening, between the development and existing housing, which could have been promoted as an additional wildlife corridor.”
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On the application's design and access statement, it said: “The site is located with good access to the town centre, existing community amenities and the local public transport network. Local amenities within walking distance of the site include multiple bus stops, shops, Post Office and various local schools.
“The scheme should be visually attractive, respecting the context, form and typology of existing built form and neighbouring local vernacular. Provide new housing, in a location with an extant need for new homes, increasing variety and choice; 40 per cent of the dwellings will be of an affordable tenure.
“The proposal currently includes two new vehicular access points from Halterworth Lane. Potential parking for the primary school will be provided at the entrances to the site along the primary street.
“The indicative layout creates a number of walking and cycling routes through a connected pattern of streets, footpaths and connections to existing network. This overall strategy will encourage the community to walk and cycle and will promote healthy active living.”
For more information about the plans, search 24/00174/OUTS on Test Valley Borough Council's online planning portal.
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