A VIRTUAL extraordinary meeting is being held to discuss plans to build 491 homes in Ringwood.

Ringwood Town Council's planning, town and environment committee will be discussing its response to the application for development on land at Moortown Lane on Wednesday (April 13) at 7pm.

A “hybrid” planning application for land off Moortown Lane has been submitted by Crest Nicholson to New Forest District Council seeking outline permission for 323 homes and full permission for 168 homes.

Land at Moortown Lane, strategic site 13, was earmarked for development in the New Forest District Council’s Local Plan for an estimated minimum of 480 homes.

A design and access statement submitted with the plans state the proposals are for 491 “high-quality” new homes with public open space, children’s play areas, sports pitches and a MUGA.

It would also have Alternative Natural Recreational Greenspace and new pedestrian and cycle connections.

A vehicular access is proposed from Moortown Lane at the southern edge of the site. The priority junction will also include a new pedestrian and cycle crossing to the land south of Moortown Lane.

Concerns were previously raised by councillors over the access and traffic.

In its draft response the town council was still concerned about this and also that there was no provision for a community facility or a primary school as well as loss of recreational space.

In addition to this affordable housing, the design and density of the development, environmental impact as well as flooding and drainage were other areas of concern flagged by the the town council

On the online application residents have also expressed concerns over the impact on traffic, infrastructure and amenities including doctors and also schools, as well as the environmental impact of pollution and disturbance of wildlife.

To view or comment on the proposals visit: newforest.gov.uk and use reference 21/11723.

For more information on how to join the extraordinary meeting of Ringwood Town Council click here.

 

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