PLANS for a new housing development in a Hampshire town have been unveiled.

Developers made a bid to build up to 77 new homes, shops, a restaurant, a hot food takeaway and parking spaces in Hedge End.

The site is on the former Budgens store on Upper Northam Road.

The planning application has been put forward by Hedge End Holdings Ltd.

It has sparked a heated debate between residents, although a final decision has not been made yet.

Dozens of local residents raised concerns about the impact that the development would have on parking, traffic, infrastructure and the character of the town.

A comment from one local resident on a Facebook group says: “If that were to go ahead it would completely ruin what’s left of Hedge End village.”

Jerry Hall, a Conservative councillor for Hedge End ward on Eastleigh Borough Council, also criticised the plan.

He said: “I think the development is far too big.

“At the moment there isn’t enough car park in Hedge End and this will make it worse.

“Also the design of the building doesn’t match with the character of the town.

“I think they should redesign it and make it smaller.

“I am asking residents for their opinion.”

Artist impressions of the proposed development have now been released.

Steve Paxton, speaking on behalf of the developer, said the scheme would be good for the village.

He said: “All points of concerns will be taken into account and we are working closely with the council to this end.

“We believe that the development will be the start of a regeneration plan for Hedge End and the local community with all of the benefits that this brings.”

The proposal is to be considered by the Hedge End, West End and Botley Local Area Committee on November 6.

Borough councillor Derek Pretty said: “Members of the public will be welcome to attend the meeting to express their concerns before any decision is taken.

“They are also able to write to development control at Eastleigh Borough Council to raise any issues or concerns that they may have.”