THE public have had their first chance to hear about plans for a huge development on the edge of Winchester.

Bloor Homes propose to build 'Manor Parks' on South Winchester Golf Club at Pitt.

The developer hosted a public webinar to explain its plans for a 'low-carbon community'.

Bloor Homes recently unveiled a masterplan with proposal for a park and ride, a primary school, a tennis facility, and a large country park.

The Manor Parks masterplan shows there will be around 1,000 homes and that half the site will be retained as green space.

The plans are already controversial with local city councillors opposing the idea. 

Bloor Homes acquired the freehold of the golf course in 2021, but reached an agreement with previous owner Crown Golf that the club will be allowed to remain open until at least 2026.

The golf club opened in the 1990s after it was previously Manor Farm. The historical farm structures were incorporated into the club buildings.

Hampshire Chronicle: Manor Parks low carbon webinar

READ MORE: Manor Parks: Bloor Homes plans for South Winchester Golf Course

A presentation was given about the scheme's aims at the webinar, on Wednesday July 26, and people had an opportunity to ask questions about low carbon homes.

James Matcham, strategic land director at Bloor Homes, and Dan Jestico, sustainable design director at Savills, hosted the 35-minute online event.

Mr Matcham said: “Manor Parks will provide much-needed, affordable housing. Our design concept is in an early stage. Over half of the site will remain as green space. We intend to put nature first. 

“The plans will naturally evolve over time. This is a long-term commitment to Winchester. We want it to be the best it can be for Winchester.”

Mr Jestico said: “Winchester City Council has to be praised for setting its net-zero carbon targets. New developments have to be net-zero. 

SEE ALSO: Manor Parks: Bloor Homes development plans opposition from councillors

“We need houses that are cheaper to run and require less energy to heat up. Every home will have an electric vehicle charging point and solar panels will provide clean energy which will significantly reduce energy bills.”

Hampshire Chronicle: Manor Parks low carbon webinar

People had the opportunity to ask questions on the theme of low carbon homes. The hosts said the questions about other topics would be answered at future webinars. 

In an answer to a question about sustainability, Mr Jestico said: “The homes need to be built in a sustainable manner with appropriate materials. The industry is working very hard to reduce the impact.”

Mr Jestico confirmed that all of the homes would run on electricity, with no gas supply.

One viewer asked if the scheme would use local suppliers. Mr Matcham said: “If we can, we will do. We have a strong foothold in the area. We think this is one of the most suitable locations for development on the edge of Winchester.”

For more details about the proposals, visit manor-parks.com.