A DEVELOPER is planning to build up to 400 homes on fields in Ringwood.

Taylor Wimpey is in the process of formulating an outline planning application for the land north of Hightown Road.

A public exhibition is being held today (Wednesday, July 3).

A spokesperson for Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties said: “Taylor Wimpey is bringing forward plans for up to 400 new homes and three hectares of employment on land north of Hightown Road, Ringwood.

“The public exhibition, taking place on Wednesday 3rd July between 3pm and 8pm at The Tithe Barn on Hightown Road, will show a number of exhibition boards which will explain the proposed development to visitors. Representatives from Taylor Wimpey will be available to answer any questions and capture feedback.”

The site is allocated in New Forest District Council’s (NFDC) emerging Local Plan, which is currently undergoing examination by planning inspectors. The minimum capacity for the land listed by NFDC is 270 homes.

Taylor Wimpey gave an initial presentation for its development at a recent Ringwood Town Council meeting. It said the scheme would include 200 “affordable homes”, with 70 per cent of these for social rent and 30 per cent shared ownership.

Exhibition boards on display at The Gateway say the proposals will “deliver high quality new homes and employment” and provide a “significant area of open space” as well as footpaths and cycle links and “biodiversity benefits”.

Vehicle access is proposed from a new roundabout off the A31 slip road to the north of the site and from Hightown Road to the south.

The existing footpath that runs to Nouale Lane would be “retained, enhanced and incorporated” into the proposed development.

The exhibition boards can also be viewed at The Gateway until tomorrow.