Homes must take priority
LANNERS are today expected to give the goahead for controversial proposals to build more than 300 new homes on a greenfield site.
The plans for the land off Peters Road in Locks Heath are similar to those Fareham Borough Council threw out five years ago after fierce protests from local residents.
Despite that decision being backed by an independent government planning inspector, the council is now expected to approve the latest application.
It says the growing need for homes in the area, and particularly affordable housing, means itmust allow previously undeveloped land to be built on.
Developers Bryant, Bovis and Barratt jointly want to build 152 houses and 155 flats on the 20- acre site.
Of these, 122 units will be affordable housing, which would be split between social renting and intermediate housing.
The new accommodation will range from one-bedroom flats to five-bedroom houses, but most will be either two-bedroom apartments or three-bedroom homes.
The developers say they will provide a total of 510 car parking spaces, which means an average of 1.66 spaces per property.
The plans have raised fears amongst local residents who are worried about the impact of the new homes on the area's infrastructure.
Letters were sent to nearby households last August explaining the proposals, and a public exhibition was held to allow people to examine the plans in more detail.
When the consultation was first announced, residents told the Daily Echo they were worried about increased traffic problems, as well as issues with already limited school and doctor's places.
Regrets were also expressed about losing more green space.
The council has also received letters of objection, adding concerns about flooding risks, the proposed buildings being out of keeping with those in the area, and inadequate parking provision.
The application is split into two phases because of different planning permissions already existing on the site, part of which houses greenhouses from a former nursery.
Officers are recommending both sections are approved, provided the developers agree to enter certain agreements.
The application will be debated by councillors at tomorrow's planning development control committee meeting at Fareham's civic offices.