A FAMILY home can be built in a historic area of Romsey after plans were permitted. 

Tim Lincoln can proceed with the scheme on land behind the Abbey Hotel in Church Street. 

He initially applied for two houses in 2021 and then reduced it to one in 2022. Both were recommended for permission by Test Valley Borough Council planning officers, but refused by councillors on the southern area planning committee. 

Concerns were raised about the size of the buildings and the potential impact on nearby medieval King John's House. The application for two houses also proposed the removal of an important sycamore tree. 

Appeals for both plans were subsequently quashed. The new planning application was permitted by Test Valley Borough Council on June 17 using delegated powers. 

READ MORE: New plan for house in historic area, just days after appeals quashed

CGI of Church Street plan (Image: TVBC)

In the decision document, planning officers said: “In economic terms the proposal would provide construction jobs during its build out. These jobs would be transitory and only moderate weight can be afforded to this point. Furthermore, the new properties would result in people living in the town centre and the associated spending by these people in the local economy is also a benefit of the scheme. 

“The site is also vacant and with the site being vacant for some time its development and occupation is considered to be a planning benefit and one that would result in some improvement to the character of this part of the Conservation Area. This matter should be afforded weight in the balance.”

They added: “The scheme is considered to enhance the immediate site and ensure its longterm use. The development is considered to preserve the setting of the Conservation area and adjoining listed buildings. The proposal would, therefore, accord with both Local and national planning policies.”