A CONTROVERSIAL scheme to build nearly 300 homes near Romsey has been resubmitted for planning bosses to decide on Tuesday evening.

The application for the Ganger Farm site, at Woodley to the north East of Romsey, comes from Barratt and David Wilson Homes and will be debated by councillors.

Previously the plan to build the 275 homes was put on hold back in May after a shock last-minute objection from another unnamed developer.

If given the green light, the scheme would bring a 'new community sports hub', with eight sports pitches, including two with all-weather surfaces.

There would also be a pavilion with state-of-the-art changing facilities for the community.
As previously reported by the Romsey Advertiser the pavilion would include 134 parking spaces and there would also be public open space as well as three new play areas.

The proposal would see 80 per cent of the homes – which are mainly three and four-bedroom properties – going on the open market, while just 20 per cent would be affordable housing.
The scheme has been criticised by bosses from Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, which is immediately north of the site off Jermyns Lane.

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While Braishfield Parish Council is also opposed to the plans, claiming it is “not a suitable” location.
They fear the proposal development would reduce the current green gap between Romsey and Ampfield.

Romsey Ramblers are also opposed to the plans and claimed they are an ‘unnecessary, unwelcome intrusion into the countryside’.

Their concerns are echoed by the Romsey and District Society who say it would ‘spoil’ the countryside character.

While 21 letters of objection have been received by planning chiefs there have also been seven letters of support.

The development plan has been welcomed by sports clubs including Romsey Rugby Club, Romsey Town Youth Football Club, Romsey Hockey Club and Braishfield Football Club, who all believe a new sports facility will benefit the area.

Planning officers have recommended that the plan is delegated to the head of planning and building to resolve ‘inconsistencies’ between drawings and to secure legal agreements for being completed to secure financial contributions.

A decision is set to be made at the Test Valley Borough Council Southern Area Planning Committee.