Parish council fighting new plan to redevelop site occupied by former station in Jones Lane, Hythe

Hythe and Dibden Parish Council has lodged an objection to an application to bulldoze the police building in Jones Lane and replace it with 33 retirement apartments.

The council is calling for more housing for first-time buyers in Hythe, where the average property price is 32% higher than the national figure.

A previous plan to build 33 flats on the site was rejected by New Forest District Council (NFDC) in 2018 after the proposed development resulted in 76 letters of objection.

Now the applicant, McCarthy & Stone, has submitted a revised scheme.

But the parish council is urging NFDC to reject the new application, claiming the building's height and bulk would make it overbearing and out of character.

In a letter to the district council it says: "The existing trees and planned landscaping will do little to hide this and as a result the development would have a negative effect on the character and appearance of the area."

It also says the application contravenes the neighbourhood development plan, which states that new buildings should reflect the area's "unique character".

The council adds: "A wide range of housing is available within the parish and most needs are met.

"However, there is a shortage of housing for first-time buyers, particularly single people, a shortage of smaller-sized houses such as one and two-bedroomed properties, and a lack of affordable housing.

"This has resulted in local young people having to move away.

"The average house price in the area is £333,724, which is approximately 32% higher than the national average. There is a significant need for affordable rented housing."

But the planning application refers to the Forest's ageing population and highlights the growing need for specialist housing for older residents.

It also says the proposed development will have a "positive impact on a prominent site".

"We believe we have created a high quality building and environment for later years living while enhancing a derelict and under-used site."

Speaking last month Shane Paull, McCarthy & Stone's regional managing director, said: “We strongly believe our revised plans for Hythe represent an important opportunity to deliver much-needed specialist retirement living accommodation.

"It will improve housing choices for older residents, whilst regenerating a disused brownfield site that is located close to shops and services.”