Go-ahead for Pennyfarthing Homes scheme at New Milton

Pennyfarthing Homes has been given the go-ahead to transform a large area of grazing land east of Brockhills Lane in New Milton.

The initial application prompted 344 letters of objection, plus a 114-name petition, and only two letters of support.

Critics complained about the loss of countryside and what they described as poor layout and design. They also claimed the main road through the estate "would be more in keeping with an inner city area".

Plans to build 164 homes on a greenfield site in the ew Forest have been approved, despite strong opposition (Image: Pennyfarthing Homes/Thrive Architects)

Amendments to the scheme sparked a further 190 letters of protest, with many objectors claiming the changes did nothing to address the issues raised.

But a report to councillors said the land was one of the sites earmarked for housing in the New Forest Local Plan.

It added that the proposed development would deliver a range of economic, social, and environmental benefits.

READ MORE: Pennyfarthing submits plan to build almost 170 homes on arable land at Brockhills Lane in New Milton

The report acknowledged that the scheme would "significantly change" a greenfield site but said it would also provide much needed housing with new areas of open space and a children's play area.

"The provision of 164 houses, of which 82 are affordable, should be given substantial weight," it said.

Plans to build 164 homes on a greenfield site in the New Forest have been approved, despite strong opposition (Image: Pennyfarthing Homes/Thrive Architects)

In a statement, Pennyfarthing Homes said the development - Danes Park - would deliver a mix of high quality houses, apartments, and bungalows.

"Pennyfarthing has created a scheme that will protect and enhance the local environment and improve safety for pedestrians and highway users through a range of offsite highway improvements."

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Ben Arnold, land and planning director for Pennyfarthing, said: "This is an exciting scheme designed to complement the natural beauty of its surroundings.

"We have long believed in the potential of this site to address housing needs in the New Milton and New Forest area.

"The development extends to ten hectares, with almost half allocated to green spaces, including alternative recreational greenspace, public open space and play areas.

"The scheme has been designed in a 'village layout', featuring attractive meandering roads that enhance the local area.

"Danes Park will deliver a range of one and two-bedroom apartments, two and three-bedroom bungalows, and two, three and four-bedroom homes - offering a wide choice for home-movers from first-time buyers and young families through to downsizers."

Construction is set to begin later this year, with the first homes expected to be available toward the end of 2025.