Progress has been made on controversial plans to build 49 new homes in Eastleigh, as the scheme comes a step closer to becoming a reality.

The application for new homes on land west of Allbrook Way was approved conditionally in June 2024, requiring more detailed plans to be submitted before construction could begin.

But now applicant Bargate Homes has now had another four conditions discharged.

This means six of the 22 conditions required before construction can begin or residents can occupy houses have been completed.

Initial applicants, Cranbury Estates Limited, originally wanted to build 59 homes but agreed to reduce the figure to 52.

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This was then updated to drop down to 49 in November, despite already having permission granted for up to 52 in June 2024.

Bargate Homes said that the reduction was proposed to ensure they are all of good quality and size.

A children's play area was also been added to the plans, which saw opposition from residents, with many concerned about wildlife.

Others are worried the area cannot cope with extra pressure on public services.

Resident Nancy Palmer said: “This application continues to fall short in many areas.

“The number of 2 and 3-bed homes has been increased. This will mean even more children in local schools. Can they cope?

“The hard landscaping is only identified as tarmac. Is this acceptable? Surely some surfaces should be porous.”

Another resident, Geoffrey Small, said: “The wildlife will suffer once they leave and there is nowhere for them to go they are lost forever.

“There has been enough building, particularly of large houses in the Allbrook area. Not good for first-time buyers. There soon will be no countryside left in this area.”

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The development will include a mix of one and two storey, detached, semi-detached and terraced houses.

Bungalows with between one and four bedrooms will also be built.

Bargate Homes says the development aims to cater to various buyers, including downsizers, families, and first-time buyers.

Out of the 49 homes, 32 will be sold on the open market.

Eleven will be available through affordable rent, and six for shared ownership, meeting the borough's tenure policy requirements.