CIVIC chiefs in Romsey are objecting to a massive scheme that would build almost 250 houses on land designated as countryside near the town.
This comes as Hillier Nurseries, along with its partner the Highwood Group, submitted plans to Test Valley Borough Council to build a new development on land off Jermyns Lane.
The Romsey Town Council Planning Committee voted on Thursday, November 15, to file a “Strong objection” to the plan, as planners found several weaknesses in the application.
Cllr John Parker said: “It is contrary to policy.
“We have a five-year housing supply. Policy should not be overwritten. Having said that it is a well-written plan.
“The only change I would have is the highway access and the fact that articulated lorries run through the housing development to get to the glasshouses at the back. I would not want to live in one of those houses on the corner when the lorries are there.”
Cllr Ian Culley voiced concerns about drainage on the site, saying: “They said they are working with Southern Water, and that is it. I think it needs to be addressed because we have the arboretum across from (the development site). But we really cannot just use what Southern Water says.”
Cllr Mark Cooper warned that allowing the plan could set a precedent, saying that it could “encourage more development.”
He continued: “The point I want to make is the application says it is a sustainable development. I read the report, and the only thing that is sustainable is Romsey itself.”
Cllr Cooper also raised a consultee comment on the application that had been submitted by Hampshire County Council’s children’s services team. The comment noted that the current provision of early years school places in Romsey would be unable to meet demand if the application was approved.
Cllr Colin Burgess also voiced concerns about how the new homes would affect Romsey's infrastructure, saying it would put pressure on schools, doctors, and other services.
SEE ALSO: 'Another nail in the coffin': Business owners react to post office closure threat
Cllr Janet Burnage called the plans “a satellite development”. She continued: “There is no access for buses or public transport. It is stuck as a satellite between Romsey and Winchester and Hursley and I think it is not appropriate.”
The town council voted to object to the application, stating that it is contrary to the local plan, there are concerns about foul water and drainage, the concerns over heavy goods vehicles driving through the development, concerns that the flats in the proposal are inappropriate, questions over the sustainability of the site, and queries about a lack of solar panels and EV charging points in the plans.
More information on the Hilliers application can be found by visiting the Test Valley Borough Council planning portal and searching using reference 24/02526/FULLS.
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