PLANS for a huge housing development in a Hampshire town have sparked anger among locals.

Linden Homes has applied for planning permission to build up to 175 homes in Ringwood, plus a nursing home, a children’s nursery and a restaurant.

The land, off Crow Arch Lane and Crow Lane, has already been earmarked for 150 new homes and employment by New Forest District Council.

Linden says that its plans would provide more than 130 jobs as well as easing the shortage of affordable housing in the Ringwood area.

But people living near the site have launched a campaign against the proposals.

Protest leader Jeremy Bradshaw said: “It’s about getting the best deal for Ringwood, not just the best deal for the developers.

“Currently there are worries over the effects of the ongoing flooding and drainage issues in the locality, the road access, traffic volume and pedestrian safety.

“In addition it’s common knowledge that the schools and the two GP practices are already full to capacity, which raises questions on how the local infrastructure can deal with substantial increases in numbers.”

Ringwood Town Council members agreed that infrastructure remained an issue and that no consideration had been given to the impact on the flow of traffic.

But Linden says that the scheme meets all the district council’s aspirations for the site by providing a mix of homes, employment land and public open space.

A planning document submitted by the company says that 50 per cent of the homes would be affordable housing.

It adds: “This will make an important contribution to meeting some of the need for affordable housing in Ringwood.”

The document also refers to concerns about traffic, including HGVs, and stresses that mitigation measures would be put in place.

n For information about the campaign group, call Mr Bradshaw on 01425 475413.