PLANS to create "80 high-quality" holiday lodges in a caravan park, which could help secure a Post Office and shop's future, have been delayed.

A planning application was submitted to Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) to replace 143 touring caravan and camping pitches, including several stored caravans, with "timber-style" accommodation at Hill Farm Caravan Park, Sherfield English.

The site is located in Branches Lane.

The proposals, which were meant to be decided by TVBC on January 4, have now been pushed back.

A spokesperson from TVBC confirmed the plans have been delayed while they consider additional information.

According to a document previously submitted by the applicant, the "80 high-quality timber-style holiday lodges" could help secure the business' future, as well as the Post Office and shop on the site, which has "struggled to remain viable due to the type of touring caravan units or pitches available".

They said the caravan site operates on a "very limited season" and the business, including the shop and post office, has "struggled to remain viable due to the type of touring caravan units or pitches available".

"In recent years, there has been a move towards a longer holiday season, with visitors wanting to stay in holiday destinations outside the period March to October.

"If this business is to extend its season, it needs to provide accommodation that can be used for a greater proportion of the year," they added.

Some residents have also thrown their support behind the proposals, saying they are needed to save businesses in the heart of the village.

As reported, Sherfield English Parish Council objected to the plans and said: "The proposed scale and density were considered over-development for a site within the countryside."

They added if the site was used for 12 months instead of eight it would be "unacceptable", worrying holidaymakers could use the lodges as "second homes" rather than as tourist accommodation.

The parish council pointed out the new accommodation could cause more light pollution, due to the larger windows on the cabins and the additional roof lights.

They also believe the proposed screening on the site is not up to scratch and could result in a loss of privacy for neighbours.

However, the council did stress they are keen to support rural businesses and local families.