AN application to redevelop farm buildings near Twyford has been permitted by Winchester City Council.
The Hazeley Group applied to the council for permission to demolish several buildings at Hazeley Farm, in Hazeley Road, and replace them with new commercial buildings, a café and social hub, parking, landscaping and associated works.
The application was approved by the Winchester City Council planning committee on Thursday, May 23.
The work is expected to be completed by 2028.
READ MORE: Hampshire country pub application for play area approved
Objecting to the application, Twyford parish councillor Chris Corcoran said: “We would like you to defer this application for three reasons. Firstly, to bring the layout in line with the development plan. Secondly, to secure increased contributions for infrastructure and thirdly to allow you to properly consider development plan issues.
“Central Twyford is deficient in regards to safety, highways, and parking. All are impacted by this development.”
Cllr Sue Cook, the ward councillor for Twyford and Colden Common, said that Twyford is not against development as a whole, but that residents were concerned about increased traffic in the village.
She also asked for the application to be deferred, saying: “On paper this application is taking away some chicken sheds, some units, the Royal Mail building, and is constructing some new units and removing a mill. It is way more than that, it is enormous.
“Units 3 and 4 are very close to the residential area. We asked for those buildings to be moved back, and they have been pushed back a few meters, but not enough.
“We are concerned at the parish at the timing of openings. We appreciate that the mill operates from 6am in the morning to 11pm and sometimes later. But why does it need to be those times if there’s not going to be a mill there. And why Sundays for the Hub staying open to 11pm?”
Speaking on behalf of the Hazeley Group, Richard Osborn said that the application had not received any objections from highways, landscape, ecology, trees or drainage consultees.
City councillor Angela Clear said: “I think the proposed development will offer many benefits, from economic, social and several improvements. I’m also thinking of jobs – I hope and believe a number of local jobs will be safeguarded.
“I think you have engaged with the community very well, and if I read what has been said today, the community is not against the application but would probably like some more dialogue with you which I am sure you could accommodate.
SEE ALSO: Hundreds turn out for annual tradition as Ropley Pram Race returns
“So, I do support it.”
The application was approved.
Speaking after the meeting, Hazeley Group developments director, Andrew Uwins, said: “We are thrilled to receive a resolution to grant consent for the comprehensive redevelopment of our former farm site.
“This project represents a significant investment in the local economy and community, and we are committed to delivering a development that balances social, economic, and environmental considerations while enhancing the natural beauty of the area.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here