Plan for 196 homes north of Cooks Lane at Calmore approved

District councillors supported an outline application submitted by Merlion Capital Corporation, which has drawn up proposals to construct 196 flats and houses between Cooks Lane, Calmore, and the A36.

Objectors say the scheme will devour a "huge" area of countryside rich in wildlife.

They also claim the proposed development will also create extra traffic problems as well as placing strain on schools and health facilities.

Plans to build almost 200 homes on farmland near Totton have been given the green light (Image: BrightSpace Architets)

Protesters include Totton and Eling Town Council, which says people already living in the area will be "surrounded" by new housing if the scheme is given the go-ahead.

But the proposal has now been approved by New Forest District Council, subject to the completion of a 106 legal agreement.

READ MORE: Flurry of objections over plan to build 196 homes on farmland north of Totton

A report to councillors said the scheme would have "significant social benefits" and would also make a major contribution to housing supply in the area.

Cllr John Sleep raised concerns over the safety of pedestrians using Pauletts Lane, one of the roads near the site, but added: "We've got to have housing, everyone accepts that."

Cllr Joe Reilly was also worried about the potential impact on road safety.

He said: "I've walked down there many times and it is a very dangerous road. There are no pavements and I am very, very concerned."

Plans to build almost 200 homes on farmland near Totton have been given the green light (Image: BrightSpace Architects)

The application sparked 41 letters of objection, plus ten of support.

Critics include Shirley Lester, of Cooks Lane, whose letter said the proposed development would "totally take away" the countryside. Neil Abrahams, of Friars Croft, Totton, also cited the loss of green space, adding that the increase in traffic would turn Pauletts Lane into a death trap.

Simon Owen, of Cooks Lane, claimed the scheme "would be a disaster for local residents and road users".

Other protesters said it would turn a largely rural part of Calmore into a semi-urban area. They also feared the potential impact on wildlife, including foxes, birds and deer.

READ MORE: Plan to build 271 homes on land north of A36 at Totton revised

Merlion Capital Corporation is planning to build two, three, and four-bedroom properties, including a large number of affordable homes.

Its application described the scheme as a well-designed and landscape-led development that would deliver a carefully considered extension to an existing urban area.

An accompanying transport assessment said the proposals "accord with the national and local planning policies relevant to the application".

A more detailed proposal will also have to be approved by the council before work can start.