Plans for 27 new homes near North Baddesley spark fierce local backlash
Stratland Estates has submitted plans to build up to 27 homes on a 1.9-hectare field near North Baddesley Infant and Junior Schools, drawing objections from residents and conservation groups who warn of ecological damage and increased traffic risks.
Stratland Estates has submitted an outline planning application to Test Valley Borough Council for up to 27 new homes on land at Roundabouts Copse, off Botley Road in North Baddesley, just south of the village’s infant and junior schools. The 1.9-hectare site, currently a flat field of grass and vegetation bordered by mature trees and ancient woodland, has drawn immediate opposition from locals and conservation groups.
Key Points
- ⚠️ Plans seek permission for up to 27 homes, down from an earlier proposal of 29
- 🌳 Site borders ancient woodland and sits in a designated Local Gap between North Baddesley and Chilworth
- 🏡 Developer claims the project will include a mix of affordable and private housing types
The developer argues the scheme aligns with National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) sustainability goals, citing new housing supply, public access to woodland, and biodiversity gains. But campaigners warn the development risks irreversible ecological harm. Louise Spanner, a North Baddesley resident, described Roundabouts Copse as an area of “significant natural conservation value,” citing protected species such as adders, bats, and slow-worms, along with frequent sightings of deer and birds of prey. She also raised concerns about wetland loss and drainage in one of the driest summers on record.
Chilworth Parish Council echoed these concerns, highlighting traffic safety issues due to high vehicle speeds on Botley Road, where the 30mph limit changes abruptly to 50mph. The council stated that “traffic speeds are generally much higher” in the area, raising fears of accidents near the school entrance. At the time of reporting, 23 public objections had been lodged, all opposing the plans.
| Concern | Developer's Response | Opposition View |
|---|---|---|
| Ecological Impact | Woodland to be retained and managed in perpetuity; minimal land loss for highway works | Irreversible loss of protected species habitat and wetland areas |
| Traffic Safety | No specific measures proposed | High speeds on Botley Road risk accidents near schools |
| Sustainability | Claimed alignment with NPPF policies | Development contradicts Local Gap designation and local planning policies |
Stratland Estates insists the proposal offers “sustainable development” that delivers housing while preserving ecological features. However, Romsey & District Society has argued the site is open countryside outside the settlement boundary, not allocated for housing in any current or draft plans. Committee secretary Sue Mullane warned that building on the Local Gap could “open up neighbouring fields towards Chilworth,” eroding rural separation between the two communities.
📋 By The Numbers
- 27 — Maximum number of homes proposed in latest plans
- 23 — Public objections lodged against the scheme so far
- 1.9 — Size in hectares of the Roundabouts Copse site
- 30mph — Current speed limit on Botley Road near the site
The application, reference 25/02539/OUTS, remains under review with no determination deadline set. Residents and campaigners are mobilizing to oppose the scheme, with further objections expected before any council decision is made.