West Parley major homes plan: Public invited to exhibiton

A reserved matters application has been submitted detailing the layout, scale, appearance and landscaping for the future development on the land east of New Road – which is set to see up to 386 new homes, retail units including a Lidl supermarket, office space, new greenspace, and more built in the coming years.

The first phase of the development will include 238 homes and the suitable alternative natural green space (SANG), and a public consultation will be held later this month.

READ MORE: West Parley housing development phase one plans revealed

Residents are encouraged to attend the Osborne Centre in Church Lane on Monday, August 15, to view the plans and ask any questions they may have.

And the application has drawn a number of comments from residents both objecting and supporting the plans.

One resident, in Brecon Close, said: “I believe the development is far too large and not in keeping with the area.

“No extra infrastructure has been discussed and I have grave concerns on the negative effect so much building will have on the river.

“Will water be diverted to the existing flood plain which could put my property at risk off flood. I also do not think the surrounding roads can cope with all the extra traffic.”

Another resident, of Ellesfield Drive, said: “The amount of housing will put high pressure onto local amenities.

“Schools and medical facilities are overstretched currently and this will make matters worse especially with high density four and five story flats included in the plans.

“West Parley had a village feel and now it will be just another part of the conurbation of BCP.

“I think a doctors surgery should be included at the least and reduce the amount of flats in the plans.”

A Linden Close resident added: “The hospitals are already at full stretch, the GP surgeries are much the same, not to mention schools, taking into account the nature of the proposed development and the anticipation that the majority of homes would house young families. 

“Also, West Parley is already gridlocked at rush hour, from all directions.”

However, a number of residents commented in support, saying: “I would like to share my support for the planning application, which will help to deliver much needed new homes in West Parley. I am very interested in living in the new homes planned for this site and hope to see them delivered as soon as possible.”