PLANS to redevelop watercress beds near Alresford have been approved by the Winchester City Council planning committee.
The plans, submitted by the Grange Estate, proposed turning the Fobdown Watercress Beds, in Abbotstone Road, Fobdown, into a wetland habitat for an environmental mitigation bank.
This work includes the removal of several leylandii trees from part of the site, as well as almost 1,000 tonnes of concrete.
READ MORE: Mystery over owner of potential site for GP surgery in market town
Margot Power, ward councillor for Alresford and the Itchen Valley, asked the planning committee to ensure that biodiversity security was put in place so that the white-clawed crayfish native to the area are not wiped out.
She said: “There are very habitats left to the white-clawed crayfish. We know that contractors in aquatic environments do work in multiple sites, and I want to know how my crayfish will be protected.”
Richard Osborn, an agent for the application, said that biosecurity is “at the forefront of the applicants’ minds”, confirming that an environmental management plan would be in place if the application was successful.
He said: “New wetland cells will create an aquatic environment that will attract insects, reptiles, birds and other important wildlife, enhancing an already rich area.
“Delivery of the postponed wetlands will be sensitive to the watercourse and associated habitats. The applicant has done everything right, they have engaged with the relevant authorities, and key stakeholders from an early stage. They’ve listened to concerns, there is support from the parish council and no technical objections from consultees.”
SEE ALSO: Korean-Japanese food chain applies to transform former stationery shop
Cllr Jane Rutter said: “I think I would be prepared to support this for the removal of those ghastly leylandii trees if nothing else.
“But I think it is the sort of development of a derelict watercress bed, we couldn’t have asked for a better approach, really. And with the reassurance about biosecurity, I think it will get general support and welcome not just from the local community, but the whole district.”
The committee voted unanimously to approve the application on Wednesday, September 25.
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