PLANS for hundreds of new homes in the Eastleigh borough have moved a step forward.

A project manager manager has been appointed to lead the work for 1,400 new homes, community buildings, schools, footpaths, cycleways and new access roads in Horton Heath.

As previously reported, the sites which include land at Chalcroft Farm and land west of Horton Heath in Burnetts Lane, as well as land at Fir Tree Farm and Victoria Farmhouse, in Firtree Lane was bought by Eastleigh Borough Council last year.

Now the authority has appointed regeneration specialist Galliford Try Partnerships as its project manager for the development.

As project manager, Galliford Try Partnerships will undertake the master developer role on behalf of the council. This will involve providing the planning services necessary to bring the site forward while acting as project manager for the construction of the infrastructure works.

Stephen Teagle, chief executive of Galliford Try Partnerships, said: “We are very pleased to have developed this partnership with Eastleigh Borough Council and we look forward to using our regeneration expertise to support the council in delivering their aspirations for the site."

As previously reported, the plans for 950 homes at Chalcroft Farm and land west of Horton Heath were put forward by Horton Heath Ltd and Robert Owton, Robert Marsh, Andrew Owton, Keith Ashley and Mrs Maureen Ashley.

Meanwhile, Drew Smith put forward a bid for 450 new homes at Fir Tree Farm and Victoria Farmhouse.

The council said that as land owner it will be able to shape the development in terms of the quantity, mix, tenure and price of the new homes and the speed which they are built.

Council leader Keith House added: “There is significant added value by the council being actively involved as it can ensure the mix of tenures really does meet the needs of local people such as social housing, market rent and family homes and that the development comes with the right infrastructure and full range of community benefits."

As previously reported, the development was criticised by residents who said to be concerned about its impact on GP surgeries, traffic and countryside.