Plans for hundreds of new homes in Eastleigh have been given the go-ahead

The first phase of a project for a new development at a site south of Chestnut Avenue and west of Stoneham Lane in Eastleigh has been granted permission.

The proposal includes 560 homes, a large open space in the centre of the site with two children’s play areas and a number of smaller open spaces.

The decision was made during a Local Area Committee meeting at the borough council earlier this week.

A council spokesperson said: “This exciting development of a new community will see enhanced facilities for all Eastleigh residents with great improvements to parts of the park and restoration of historic buildings.”

Nearly 200 of the new homes will be classed as affordable on the site. A new link road will be created and run between Chestnut Avenue and Stoneham Lane.

Highwood Group is the developer behind the project. Land director Simon Beech said: “We are extremely proud of the plans after five years of hard work.”

Mr Beech said works are expected to start in August and the first homes are expected to be ready for occupation next summer.

Overall the new development will provide 1,100 new homes plus a primary school, children’s pre-school nursery, community building, care home, retail and office buildings and car parking.