WORK on a controversial housing development in Hampshire is under way. 


The construction of 98 homes by Drew Smith on fields at Hatch Farm in West End has started, with the first homes expected to be completed in summer 2018. 


As previously reported, the new homes will have access from Barbe Baker Avenue and Barnsland and new parking spaces, footpaths, a children’s play area and a pond will also be created.


The plans put forward by Radian Homes sparked anger among residents who pleaded with councillors not to allow the development when the proposal was presented before the Hedge End, West End and Botley Local Area Committee back in March 2016. 


Now that work is under way residents have again voiced their concerns about the impact the development will have on traffic, GP surgeries, the countryside and the availability of school places.


Fred Harder, 83, has been living in West End since 1957 and said his bungalow faces the land earmarked for the development. 


He said: “The whole village was a village when I moved here, now it’s not a village any more. 
“They are taking green lands away from us. Traffic is going to be mad; it’s already horrendous now. 
“When people will move to the development trying to book an appointment with the GP will be horrendous.”


The site was identified for development by Eastleigh Borough Council.


Keith House, council leader at Eastleigh Borough Council, said: “This is an exciting development working in partnership with Radian at Hatch Farm. It will provide much needed homes for market rent and affordable rent alongside homes for sale. This mix of tenures will help reduce our housing waiting list and assist in meeting the shortfall in housing across the borough.”


The plans are for a mix of one, two, three and four bedroom homes, including bungalows available for affordable rent, shared ownership and open market sale.