Nearly 260 people oppose 62 homes on land in the New Forest

Members of the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) are being urged to approve proposals to redevelop a greenfield site off Whartons Lane, Ashurst.

Objectors claim the scheme will create extra traffic problems in the area, including roads surroundings Foxhills infant and junior schools.

One of the letters received by the NPA says the proposed development will cause traffic chaos at school drop-off and pick-up times.

The letter adds: "There are far too many properties for the size of the plot. The properties are completely uninspiring and out of character. In fact, they are an eyesore and will blight this village forever."

The proposed site off Whartons Lane, Ashurst. Picture: New Forest District Council planning portal.

Another objector says: "It is such as shame that something so ordinary and un-inspired is being proposed for such a beautiful location."

One of the villagers worried about potential problems near the two schools says the increase in traffic will endanger children and their parents.

The scheme is also being opposed by Ashurst and Colbury Parish Council which says the design is "cramped" and lacks "local distinctiveness".

But the 2.7-hectare site has been allocated for housing in the NPA's Local Plan.

A report to the planning committee says: "The development would provide 62 dwellings, open space and associated landscaping in accordance with the Local Plan policy requirements.

"The balance between built development, open space and landscaping is considered to have been successfully reached.

"Hampshire County Council has confirmed that traffic generated would be accommodated within the highway network and the controlled surface water discharge rate would ensure no increase in flood risk."

The application has been submitted by Vivid, described as Hampshire's largest provider of affordable homes.

Its proposal has sparked six letters of support from people who say it will help meet the housing need and represents an "excellent" use of the site.

Half the new homes will be classed as affordable, with the others being sold on the open market.

The initial proposal was superseded by amended plans that include a village green-style public open space.

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