A CONTROVERSIAL scheme for 100 new homes in a Hampshire village have been thrown out.

Rookesbury Estate Ltd and Bewley Homes Plc aimed to build the homes on land east of Winchester Road in Wickham.

The plan would have also seen public recreational space provided on land east of Mill Lane.

However the scheme which includes 40 affordable homes is now facing a major stumbling block as planners at Winchester City Council say it did not meet their planning policies in their local plan.

They claim the scheme did not provide an “adequate” number of homes, and did not have an acceptable masterplan, it represents development outside the settlement boundary of Wickham which is also against the Local Plan.

They also say the scheme was against design guidance, and the proposed development would pose a flood risk.

Other reasons for refusing the plan included the impact on transport, and failing to make “appropriate” provision for affordable housing.

Residents in the area were also against the plan with 20 objecting to it.

A common complaint in objecting letters was the pressure new development would put on the drainage system in the village which they say is inadequate and, some argued that no development should be considered until a drainage area plan is carried out by Southern Water.

One objector said: “I understand that the developer wants to obtain planning permission for these houses prior to the flooding problems in Wickham being identified and, if necessary rectified.

“Surely this should not be allowed as it may lead to greater difficulties in the future.”

Wickham Parish Council also objected and said a key concern is onsite provision for recreation is inadequate and said the development should have ‘substantial’ open space.

Two people wrote in support of the plan.

One said Wickham needs more one or two bedroom properties that the development could provide.

The other supporter wrote: “As long as correct traffic management arrangements are made, and due consideration to the drainage questions are given then I feel the development would be of benefit to the village.

"We need a mixture of private housing to keep the balance right, and help Wickham businesses to continue.”