Campaigners call for Lymington Shores scheme to be completed

Redrow Homes was given planning permission to build almost 170 homes overlooking the Lymington River on condition the prestige scheme included a restaurant, art gallery, and several shops.

The homes have been built but residents are still waiting for the other facilities to be completed.

Now Redrow has merged with Barratt, which is facing calls to "break the deadlock" and complete the multi-million-pound development.

The Lymington Shores scheme comprises almost 170 homes overlooking the Lymington River (Image: Redrow Homes)

The luxury Lymington Shores scheme occupies a former factory site in Bridge Road. It is separated from the town's main shopping area by a railway line, resulting in a long walk for pedestrians.

The Lymington Society has written to David Thomas, chief executive of what is now known as Barratt Redrow.

A Society spokesperson said: "The original plan for the site envisaged a vibrant extension to the town centre, with access to the station and the town via a new pedestrian bridge, as well as a major gallery, restaurant and retail units.

"Planning permission was granted many years ago on the basis of the promises made to the community by the developers.

"Since then, Redrow have used every possible legal device to get out of these legal obligations, including two High Court judicial reviews which have been roundly rejected by the courts, resulting in a total impasse between the company and New Forest District Council.

"The Society hopes the new owners can be persuaded to take a fresh look at this site."

The Lymington Shores development occupies a former factory site beside Lymington Town station (Image: Stuart Martin)

In its letter to Mr Thomas, the group criticises what it describes as Redrow's "appalling conduct".

"Redrow have used every legal manoeuvre they could to try and get out of the obligations they entered into through the original [section] 106 agreements to provide a range of facilities on the site, as well as a pedestrian bridge to connect the site to the railway station and the wider town of Lymington."

The Society says Barratt Redrow should enter into talks with the council and give residents the amenities they were promised.

Chairman Donald Mackenzie told the Daily Echo: "We really hope the new owners of the site will see their reputation will be enhanced by finally agreeing to build the bridge and completing the other facilities."

Matt Paine, managing director of Redrow Southern Counties, said: "We remain committed to resolving this issue and have funding set aside to do so.

“The matter remains highly complicated and we’re continuing to work with all parties including Network Rail, South Western Railway, and Hampshire County Council to find a workable solution."