PLANNING chiefs look set to approve the latest application to build homes on land behind a Grade II-listed pub in the New Forest.

District councillors are being urged to support proposals submitted by Bayview Developments, which is seeking consent for three houses beside the White Horse Inn at Milford on Sea.

A previous application to build four homes on the site was rejected in July after sparking a flurry of objections.

As reported in the Daily Echo, much of the controversy centred on plans to build an access road off Grebe Close, a no-through-road.

Cllr David Hawkins told fellow members of the council’s planning committee that increasing the amount of traffic using the road would be “absolute madness”.

Bayview is now asking for permission to build a trio of four-bedroom houses, with access from Keyhaven Road.

Council planning officers are recommending the committee to approve the scheme when it meets on Wednesday.

A report to councillors says: “It is felt that the proposed layout creates a relatively spacious setting, with gaps between the buildings, and would not appear cramped or congested.

“The extent of hardstanding is limited to a small area within the site, with some car parking hidden between two of the proposed dwellings.”

Comparing the application with the previous proposal the report says “significant improvements” have been made.

It adds: “The proposed development has been designed in a sympathetic manner with space around the buildings, making an effective use of an untidy and redundant site.”

The scheme would “preserve the character and appearance” of a nearby conservation area.