Developers have been accused of jumping the gun after launching a public consultation for plans for 250 homes on the edge of a village.

A public consultation for the new Fair Oak development was launched by Bloor Homes on July 18.

The scheme includes different styles of homes, including affordable houses, and large and small properties.

But its proposed location is around two miles from the controversial One Horton Heath council-led housing development.

Nick Couldrey, councillor for Fair Oak and Horton Heath, is resistant to the plans by Bloor.

'No flood risk'

Keen to “meet local housing needs”, developers said the scheme south of Mortimers Lane could create a vibrant community.

From a dedicated ‘hub’ to retail opportunities, EV charging spaces and other community services, developers proposed it will be more than just housing.

Play areas and green spaces would also be created in the process.

It is proposed residents would gain access to the site from Mortimers Lane.

The number of parking spaces is yet to be determined.

The plans for Fair Oak The plans for Fair Oak (Image: Bloor Homes)

The One Horton Heath development – which is set to deliver 2,500 homes – has come under fire by residents who said the land in the Fair Oak area is not suitable for houses.

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Fears around flooding and building on ‘bog land’ are often cited.

But Bloor Homes said the proposed site for the Fair Oak development, off Mortimers Lane, has no “flooding, drainage, utilities or ground condition constraints” that prevent development, adding: “The proposals would develop a sustainable drainage strategy.”

'Should be resisted'

Although the plans have gone out for public consultation, an outline planning application is yet to take shape.

The site is currently being promoted for residential development as part of Eastleigh Borough Council’s emerging Local Plan.

Cllr Couldrey said: “Bloor has jumped the gun.

“We won’t know if this is the best site for new houses until we look at all possible sites as part of the Local Plan.

“This gives the community the opportunity to discuss where they want new housing.

“There are many proposals and these need to be compared to each other before deciding where any new homes should be built.

“Bloor should not be allowed to pre-empt the Local Plan and avoid their proposals being measured against other suggestions.

“I think that the current proposal should be resisted.”