Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Site

  • The land is greenfield with areas of previous use. It is largely undeveloped land with some existing commercial plots.

  • The total site area is approximately  14 hectares.

The Proposals

  • An outline planning application is being submitted which will seek to establish the principle of development.

  • Yes. 40 percent of homes will be affordable, including a mix of tenures.

  • No. This is an entirely different and separate site from other proposals that have been proposed locally.

Housing

  • A mix of homes for all life stages, including starter homes, family houses, and homes for downsizers. The mix will respond to local demand and ensure choice.

Environment and Landscape

  • The retention of mature trees and existing vegetation is a key priority; trees will only be removed if there’s no other option and where a suitable mitigation strategy exists.

  • The scheme will deliver at least a 10% biodiversity net gain, with new habitats such as wildflower meadows, swales, and tree planting. Ecological enhancements will protect existing habitats and encourage wildlife connectivity.

  • A Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) including ponds, swales, and basins will manage surface water, reduce flood risk, and create habitats.

Flooding and Drainage

Neighbour Impact

  • The layout will respect existing neighbours, with careful boundary treatments and appropriate building placement. Homes will be set within strong green edges, ensuring a softened view from surrounding countryside and properties.

  • Existing commercial land will be retained, safeguarding jobs and maintaining local economic activity.

  • Yes. A noise assessment will accompany the application and mitigation will be included where needed.

Highways and Transport

  • Two points of vehicular access are proposed from Sandy Lane. Both accesses are proposed to be delivered as simple priority junctions designed to meet current design and highway safety standards.

  • A detailed Transport Assessment will accompany the application. It will model traffic flows, assess off site junction capacity, and recommend mitigation where required. Streets within the development will be designed to prioritise pedestrian and cycle movements within a low speed and lightly trafficked environment. A residential Travel Plan will also be submitted with the application, seeking to promote and facilitate the use of non-car modes particularly for local journeys.

Planning

  • No. The site is not allocated. However, Test Valley currently faces a significant shortfall in housing land supply, against current government targets. This development will play a vital role in helping to close that gap by bringing much-needed new homes to a sustainable, well-connected location, supporting the growth and future prosperity of the community.

Programme

  • We hope to submit an application in October 2025 following consideration of the comments received during the public consultation.

  • Subject to planning approval, houses could be delivered within two and a half to three years of the grant of outline permission.

  • A Construction Management Plan will be put in place to manage things such as this. This would be secured by condition on the application and will be implemented during the construction phase of development.