PLANS to double the number of new homes on former industrial land look set to be approved - despite several objections to the scheme.

Nine properties have already sprung up on the old Redmayne Engineering site next to Brockenhurst station, one of the gateways to the New Forest National Park.

Now Weston Investments wants to scrap plans to build commercial units on the rest of the land and construct a further nine homes instead.

Its application to amend the original scheme is being opposed by the Friends of Brockenhurst group, which says employment land in the area should be safeguarded.

The New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) has also received 12 letters of objection from locals.

Protesters say the land is one of the few sites in the village capable of providing new jobs. They are also worried about the potential impact of the extra homes on neighbouring properties.

But the NPA's planning committee is being urged to support the latest proposal when its meets on January 18.

A report to members says the new application is contrary to policy but also cites the lack of demand for the commercial buildings that formed part of the original application.

It adds that the revised scheme would provide a further nine homes, helping to meet an acknowledged local need.

"The site lies outside of the conservation area but occupies a prominent, visible position close to and viewed from the station and passing trains," says the report.

"The engineering buildings did not provide a welcoming outlook for visitors or local residents and the opportunity exists to enhance the character of the area.

"This is in the process of being achieved with the development of the first nine houses which are nearing completion."

The report says housing on the site could result in increased overlooking, plus loss of privacy, noise and disturbance and outside activity at times when the previously proposed commercial buildings would be closed.

But it adds that the scheme makes use of good design solutions that would limit the impact of the additional properties.

The report says NPA officers should be authorised to approve the application, subject to the completion of a legal agreement.