Horton Heath: Fury as plans for up to 150 new homes revealed

Developer Southern Strategic Land (SSL) is seeking outline planning permission for the project on a nine-hectare site off Snakemoor Lane.

The development would include a mix of terraced, semi-detached, detached and bungalow homes, along with a new children's play area, public open space and improved pedestrian and cycle links to Botley Road.

Some 40 per cent of the homes built would be designated as shared ownership and affordable rented housing for those on Eastleigh Borough Council’s housing register.

Part of the land off Snakemoor Lane. (Image: SSL / Eastleigh Borough Council Planning) The land, currently classified as low-grade agricultural use, was chosen in part to minimise impact on the surrounding community.

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But the proposal, submitted on June 10, has already been met with concerns and objections from those living nearby.

Keith Milner said that the plans would result in "overdevelopment of this area", removing "natural habitat" and removing "flora and fauna".

A site location map. (Image: SSL / Eastleigh Borough Council Planning) The plans say a 20-metre buffer zone would be maintained around existing woodland, and all healthy trees on the site would be retained.

Additional tree planting is also proposed.

Callum Smith, owner of the nearby Lake End Stables, said: "One of my most significant concerns is the devaluation of my property, my neighbours and surrounding residents. 

"When I purchased my home, I did so under the pretence that the surrounding area would remain rural, with open farmland, and not be developed into a large scale development just a stones throw from my house. 

An aerial view of the site. (Image: SSL / Eastleigh Borough Council Planning) "The introduction of this development would severely impact the value of our homes."

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Rosie Parker argued that the scheme would put more strain on GP surgeries in the area which are "already under pressure".

SSL said the scheme aims to preserve the character of the area while enhancing biodiversity.

The land, currently classified as low-grade agricultural use, was chosen in part to minimise impact on the surrounding community.

Ben Jones of SSL said: "This proposal represents a unique opportunity to bring forward vital new homes which can make an important contribution to the borough’s housing needs with very little impact upon existing residents."