PLANS for 43 homes in Romsey have been lodged, with huge criticism from residents.

Stratland Estates submitted an application to Test Valley Borough Council last month.

The plans outline a mixed development of one to two bed flats and two, three and four bed houses north of the newly developed Oxlease Meadows near the Fishlake Nature Reserve.

Debates had already been sparked regarding the intentions of the developers, Stratland Estates who initially put in an application for just four homes on the same plot but during that application process, residents received a further notification proposing the larger development to include a new access road and a bridge crossing over the Old Canal.

Public notice for the new plans was given on September 23 and has received 20 written objections so far including from the Natural Environment Committee of the Romsey and District Society and the Test Valley Planning Policy department.

Residents are angered after some feel they were misled when purchasing properties at Oxlease Meadows from Bellway Homes.

Ritchie Best, resident of Oxlease Meadows claimed he was verbally told when purchasing the home there wouldn’t be an access road. He wrote: “When this site was advertised, I like many were verbally told that there was no access through, meaning many people paid a premium for the character of this site but now face vastly increased footfall.”

Other residents have given opinions as to what they think might work better.

Christopher Holland resident of Oxlease meadows stated in his objection: “I would suggest that if access from the new development is provided via this bridge it should be gated. Carry signage to actively discourage cyclists from using this route.”

Matthew Lucas, resident of Oxlease Meadows suggested the new access route be built through Treviglio Close or Batterberg Close but Joshua Scott, resident of Treviglio Close responded to say: “As a new resident of Treviglio Close, I find it uncomfortable that a resident of Oxlease Meadows is presenting their concerns and challenges to the plans by deflecting onto Treviglio Close.”

The main concerns raised are increased traffic levels, surface water drainage, the proposed site is outside of the settlement boundary and the impact building will have on wildlife.

A spokesman for Stratland Estates said: "Stratland have always, and will continue to, work with local residents during the development of schemes. 

"We aim to be thoughtful and considerate developers and strive to achieve an open and honest relationship with our neighbours during the planning process and subsequent development and welcome constructive feedback and comments.

"Stratland Estates successfully delivered the planning at Oxlease Meadows which resulted in establishing the well renowned Nature Reserve at Fishlake Meadows.  Without Stratland vision, this would not have been delivered and now enjoyed by so many, both locally and nationally, and Ofcourse those who are so privileged to live next to it. This something we are immensely proud of.

Although the site is outside the settlement boundary, Test Valley Borough Council state that material considerations should be made when looking at other developments within the vicinity and the consultation response from the Flood and Water Management department at Hampshire County Council say Stratland Estates have responded to their concerns regarding surface water and they are satisfied with no objections.

To see the full planning application visit www.testvalley.go.uk/on-lineapplications and enter reference 21/02715/FULLS