WINCHESTER civic chiefs have given the go-ahead for one of the biggest housing schemes in the area in recent years.

The city council and Havant Borough Council have each given the go-ahead for 450 new homes to be built at Old Park Farm, near Waterlooville.

The development is part of the West of Waterlooville major development area, which will eventually comprise 2,000 homes.

The scheme will ease the pressure for major housing schemes in other parts of the district.