PLANS to build 63 homes near Southampton have been approved this week.

A planning application was submitted to Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) to build the homes in the Old Mansion Site, Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh.

The proposals, submitted by Highwood Homes, will sit behind Stoneham Lakes and offer a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments - 12 will be affordable.

There will be a number of three and four-bedroom "luxury homes", as well as one five-bedroom house.

The development will boast a new tennis court located in the centre of the site, a woodland walk and a waterside terrace after the plans were unanimously approved by TVBC's Southern Area Planning Committee on Tuesday.

As reported, a chairman of a fishing club hit out at the plans, claiming it would be a "nightmare" for fishers.

Chairman of Eastleigh and District Angling Club, David Banks, believed members of the club would see increased traffic congestion in the area, due to more than 100 car parking spaces that could be built.

He feared the "three-storey block of flats" would tower over Stoneham Lakes, increasing light pollution when fishers are there at night.

He added: "We were told there was a development of 12 high-quality homes and on this understanding we sold a small bit of land to Highwood; now they are looking to build blocks of flats and houses."

However, a spokesperson from Highwood Homes hit back and said: "Highwood has worked closely with E & D Angling Club throughout and they have always been aware of the proposals."

According to Highwood Homes' website, the development is described as "a superb collection of luxury homes set within a prestigious community".

It adds the site is within "the former grounds of a magnificent mansion that was built and owned by dynastic Fleming family dating back to at least 1638".