Concerns have been raised about plans to build new homes just off one of Hedge End's busiest streets. 

A new planning application has been submitted to Eastleigh Borough Council for the construction of two retirement bungalows at Willow Mead on Wildern Lane, Hedge End.

The  proposal forms part of an expanded retirement complex and aims to provide homes for residents aged 55 and over, which the plan says is needed in the Hedge End area.

But the plans has been met with a number of residents' objections. They say the area is already over developed and have fears about the impact on wildlife and on traffic for an already busy road with two large schools.

Hedge End resident Charlotte Crowder said: “I am writing to strongly object to this development.

“I’m concerned about the access issues this could create for residents currently living in Willow Mead and also access to the schools which are already heavily overpopulated as construction traffic would be via Wildern Lane.

“I trust that you will make the correct decision against this development that you did in 2023.”

Wildern Lane in Hedge End Wildern Lane in Hedge End (Image: NQ) Submitted by Wessex Planning Ltd on behalf of Mr T Brennan, the proposal follows a previously rejected application for a four-flat building, which was denied due to concerns over design, amenity space, and potential impacts from nearby trees.

The new proposal offers single-storey dwellings designed to minimize visual impact on neighbouring properties.

Terry Crow, from Lucerne Gardens, has objected to the proposals, citing environmental impacts on both people and wildlife.

He stated: "Essentially my objection is based on squeezing in two more properties in what is already, self-evidently, an over-developed area.”

“I could literally write a book on the tragedy for wildlife that is the over-development of Hedge End and surrounding areas.

Mr Crow also questioned the ecological report, arguing it failed to accurately assess the site's biodiversity.

He added: “From my own experience of recording and monitoring, I've recorded more than 1,200 invertebrates in Wildern local nature reserve - about 100 metres away.”