New Forest District Council turns down scheme for five new homes in Langdown Lawn, Hythe, due to size concerns

A development of five new homes in Hythe has been narrowly turned down by after being branded too small.

Ibex Homes applied to build two two-bedroom and three three-bed houses on land behind numbers 12 and 14 Langdown Lawn.

Hythe and Didben Parish Council objected to the application on the grounds it would result in overlooking, additional traffic and could set a precedent for “overdevelopment” of gardens.

Members of the public also submitted six objections, with concerns over the impact on air quality, flooding, loss of privacy and being out of character for the area.

A report to members of the New Forest District Council’s planning committee said: “The scheme makes effective use of land in the established built-up area that would preserve the character and appearance of the area and provides a mix of house sizes that makes a positive contribution to meeting housing need.”

However, Cllr Malcolm Wade objected to the application and added: “This is just too much in too small a place, realistically.

“I think we should refuse it.”

Cllr David Hawkins agreed: “I do not like backland development, and this is a pig in a poke.

“I think it is not fit to be passed.”

Cllr John Sleep said the homes were needed.

“We’re looking at housing for all our community – if it is a starter house for somebody, I’d be happy for that.

“If we have got five properties we can get our community to live in, as far as I’m concerned there is housing that is justified.”

Members voted seven to six in favour of refusal.