CONTROVERSIAL plans to build scores of homes in the Hampshire countryside look set to be rejected after sparking more than 100 objections.

Planning officers employed by New Forest District Council say the proposed development would result in the "unwarranted and harmful urbanisation" of a rural area.

Campaigners have spent months fighting new proposals to redevelop farmland opposite Calmore Cottage - a Grade II listed building on the edge of Totton.

Howard Sharp and Partners initially applied for consent to build up to 100 homes on the site but later reduced the figure to 80.

However, the two proposals have resulted in a total of 102 objections from people who fear the homes will destroy the area's rural character.

The council's planning and development control committee is being urged to reject the latest application when it meets next Wednesday.

The officers' report says the site, north of Loperwood Lane, lies outside the built-up part of Totton.

It adds: "A number of applications for residential development of this site were refused during the 1990s, the most recent of which was also dismissed at appeal.

"The appeal inspector concluded that the development was unjustified rural development in the countryside that would have caused material harm to the local landscape."

Objectors to the latest proposal include Totton and Eling Town Council and the New Forest National Park Authority.

Protesters say the new homes would create extra traffic problems in the area as well as causing noise and light pollution. They also claim the scheme would place severe strain on schools and other facilities.

The officers' report concludes that the new houses would result in "inappropriate and unjustified" residential development in the countryside.

It adds: "As such this significant proposal would result in the unwarranted and harmful urbanisation of this countryside area."

But the applicants have defended the scheme, citing the "desperate need" for more housing in the district.

Documents submitted to the council claim the new homes will result in a "relatively low number" of vehicle movements. They also say the scheme will improve the flooding situation by ensuring surface water run-off is "intercepted", preventing it from leaving the site and causing problems elsewhere.

A design and access statement describes the homes as a natural addition to Totton and will "successfully round off" the settlement.

Planning agent Robert Wickham said highway and drainage issues could be resolved.

Asked about the potential impact of the scheme on doctors, dentists and schools he added: "Additional services follow once new housing is built."