New builds neighbouring King John’s House proposed

An application has been made to Test Valley Borough Council by Brightbeech Developments which would see the erection of two two-storey homes next door to King John’s House.

King John’s House is an 800-year-old medieval building in Romsey’s conservation area and is Grade I listed.

The application has caused upset among residents who say the archaeological assessment is not good enough, and who fear for the future of the town’s ‘historic gem’.

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At the Romsey Town and Romsey Extra Parish Council joint planning committee meeting, councillors spoke about their concerns.

They were worried about the proximity of the new houses to King John’s House and the adjoining St John’s Gardens.

As well as the concerns for disruption and the potential loss of archaeological remnants, they also thought the height of one of the homes would hinder views of Romsey Abbey from the garden and bring shade to Miss Moody’s Tudor Tea Room, in Church Street.

Chairman of King John’s House, Cllr John Parker, spoke at the meeting as a member of the public.

He said: “The trustees of King John’s House are still formulating an agreed objection.

“First off, land rear to the Abbey Hotel has been left for some time. There may be residue of King John’s House there.

“The archaeological evaluation should be completed prior to a decision. The impact of house number one, it brings a high building into what has been a fairly open view at King John’s House. The house may also produce shading on King John’s historic garden.”

Aerial view of proposed new builds. Picture credit to Genesis Designs

Phoebe Merrick, of the Romsey Local History Society, expressed her concerns.

She said: “It would be a tragedy if building were to be allowed that damages the environment of King John’s garden. The garden is such a gem in the middle of Romsey and I know from the times when I walk through it, how many people appreciate it.

“Having watched its creation by a loyal and hard-working band of volunteers over a number of years from when it was more or less a derelict tip to today, when it is one of the high spots of central Romsey, and a tourist attraction, I would hate to see it damaged by ill considered building work.

“There is some controversy about exactly when King John’s House was built in the 13th Century and any chance that helps us to understand the development of the area should be grasped.”

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The county archaeologist said no archaeological assessment had been submitted with the application.

The planning committee agreed to push back their decision until an adequate archaeological assessment has been carried out.

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Kimberley Barber