MORE than 1,300 people flocked to a series of consultation events over controversial plans to build thousands of homes in the Hampshire countryside.

Residents from across Eastleigh and the surrounding areas came to have their say during 12 exhibitions in town halls and community buildings throughout November.

It was the first opportunity to see a blueprint for development over the next 18 years, which could see up to 4,700 homes built on greenfield land in the area.

The Eastleigh Borough Council plan includes proposals to build 1,400 homes at Boorley Green at Botley Park Golf Course as well as 1,400 homes at Stoneham Park and a further 1,000 on land around Woodhouse Care near Hedge End. The wider plan earmarks sites for a total of up to 9,400 homes up until 2029.

Council Leader Keith House said: “It was great to see so many local people come along to examine the proposals and discuss issues with council staff.

“The views of local people are important to us and although the exhibitions have finished the nine-week consultation continues until early January and I encourage everyone to let us have their thoughts and views.

“We want to keep improving the plan to meet the needs of our borough for the future.”

Documents are available to view at the Civic Offices, Eastleigh Town Centre Office as well as parish and town council offices and libraries.

Comments must be made by January 3 after which findings will be reported to Cabinet members along with a revised version of the plan in summer 2012.