A DEVELOPER has launched a new attempt to build four homes behind a Grade II-listed pub in the New Forest.

Bayview Developments has submitted the latest in a series of applications to transform a derelict piece of land beside the White Horse at Keyhaven Road, Milford on Sea.

A proposal to build four homes on the site was rejected by New Forest District Council in July 2019 after sparking a flurry of objections.

A few months later the authority approved plans for three homes behind the pub. But Bayview has now submitted another proposal to construct four properties.

A design and access statement that forms part of the latest application says the “high quality development” will enhance the character of the site.

It adds: “The development seeks to replace a large detached four-bedroom house with a pair of semi-detached three-bedroom properties, with only a modest increase in the massing of built form on the site.

“The scheme will contribute positively to the local character and increase the standard of design locally.

“There are no unacceptable impacts arising from the proposals which override the public benefits of delivering additional housing in a sustainable location.”

But the application has already come under fire from one of the people living nearby.

In a letter to the council the protester cites Bayview’s decision to put forward another four-house scheme and accuses it of trying to secure consent “by stealth”.

She adds: “I have no objection to developing the site but there is insufficient parking for four properties.”

Controversy surrounding the original application 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 later sought consent to build three four-bedroom houses, with access from Keyhaven Road. Comparing it with the previous proposal the council said “significant improvements” had been made.