WORK to build almost 700 new homes in Eastleigh is due to begin at the start of next year.

A start date for construction of the controversial Boorley Gardens development in Boorley Green has been given as January 2022, with the first home owners set to move in the following summer.

Built by Miller Homes and Bellway Wessex on what is currently fields between Winchester Road and Hedge End Station, the development will be 35 per cent affordable housing.

It will be made up of 232 private properties and 125 affordable properties being built by Bellway Wessex, whilst Miller Homes Southern will provide a further 210 private properties and 113 affordable homes.

Alongside the new development, plans are also in place for the creation of a community centre with small scale retail units, community spaces and healthcare services.

And as well as this there will also be two schools, informal and private open spaces including allotments, and a new public car park to serve Hedge End train station.

The leader of Eastleigh Borough Council has sounded a cautious note after the development proved controversial when it was put forward for planning permission in 2015. It was refused by Hedge End, West End and Botley Local Area Committee.

But despite concerns the homes were being built on a greenfield site, permission was granted when the then Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Sajid Javid, gave the green light.

Upon hearing news of the start date, council leader, Keith House said: “Eastleigh Borough Council opposed this site being brought forward. It was forced on the local community by the Government.

“The council will work to make the best of the situation but I am worried that Bellway will now be building here given the massive number of complaints from residents and outstanding problems with their Latitude development south of Hedge End where they have washed their hands of home-owners’ problems.”

Kim Caldwell, sales director for Bellway Wessex, said: “This is an exciting new development in Boorley Green which will provide greater housing choice for those looking to buy in this very popular area.

“The homes we are planning to build will appeal to buyers on all steps of the property ladder, from first-time buyers to families looking to upsize and commuters looking to move out of the city.”

Katrina Crawford, sales and marketing director at Miller Homes Southern, added: “We are excited to commence building early next year, and we look forward to welcoming new families, individuals and couples to what is an exceptionally picturesque part of Hampshire.”