West Wellow housing plan resubmitted with fewer homes amid fierce resistance
Test Valley Borough Council has relisted plans for 99 homes on land south of Romsey Road, West Wellow, sparking fresh opposition from residents who cite flooding, traffic and wildlife risks. Developer Gladman insists the scheme includes green infrastructure and sustainable drainage.
Test Valley Borough Council has relisted a housing scheme for West Wellow after the developer cut the number of homes from 100 to 99. Gladman Developments submitted an outline planning application on March 6 for land south of Romsey Road, adjacent to Bridge Farm. The reduction follows two prior refusals by TVBC, both of which cited unresolved concerns that remain unchanged.
Long-standing residents Jane and Iain Ferguson, who have lived in West Wellow for 52 years, have filed detailed objections. They argue the proposal contradicts both the Local Plan and the Neighbourhood Plan, echoing their previous successful campaign against similar plans from Gladman. The couple warn that Romsey Road cannot safely absorb an additional 250 vehicles daily and that Buttons Lane’s narrow pavements make it hazardous for pedestrians.
📋 By The Numbers
- 2 — Previous refusals of Gladman’s plans for this site
- 52 — Years Jane and Iain Ferguson have lived in West Wellow
- 99 — Number of homes now proposed instead of 100
Environmental concerns dominate the opposition. The Fergusons claim the land lies within flood zones and floods for six months each year, while also serving as a critical wildlife corridor for badgers, otters, deer, kites, buzzards and herons. They question whether local schools and GP services can absorb increased demand without additional infrastructure.
| Infrastructure Capacity | Current Status | Projected Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Public transport | Limited to no service | No new routes proposed |
| Romsey Road | Already congested | 250+ additional daily vehicles |
| Buttons Lane | Narrow pavements, poor visibility | Proposed realignment but no safety guarantees |
Fellow objector Patsy Baverstock described the development as one that “will totally spoil the village.” She highlighted the lack of GP provision, schools at full capacity, and seasonal flooding that already disrupts access. Baverstock also raised fears over increased pressure on sewers and the potential for light pollution affecting the rural character.
💡 Pro Tip
Residents opposing new developments should submit objections early, referencing specific policies in the Local Plan and Neighbourhood Plan to strengthen their case.
Gladman Developments insists the proposals prioritize sustainability. The outline application includes electric vehicle charging points, solar panels, and air source heat pumps for every home. The developer also proposes introducing Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems to manage water runoff and enhance biodiversity. Nearly half the site would remain undeveloped, with green infrastructure including a gateway greenspace, wildlife corridors and a remembrance garden.
Key Points
- ✅ Developer cut homes from 100 to 99 after two prior refusals
- ⚡ Residents cite persistent flooding, traffic and wildlife risks
- 💡 Gladman claims the scheme includes green infrastructure and sustainable drainage
The determination deadline for the application is June 8. While the number of homes has decreased, objectors argue the core issues remain unresolved. The council’s decision will hinge on whether the revised plans address the long-standing concerns raised by the community.
- March 6 — Gladman submits outline application for 99 homes
- June 8 — Council determination deadline
- Past refusals — 2022 and 2023 applications rejected for similar reasons
West Wellow’s future now rests on whether the council deems the adjustments sufficient to outweigh the entrenched opposition. The outcome will shape not only the village’s character but also the precedent for future developments in flood-prone, ecologically sensitive rural areas.
- 📊 99 homes proposed, down from 100 but still facing significant resistance
- 🔍 Previous refusals highlight unresolved infrastructure and environmental concerns
- ⚠️ Flooding and wildlife habitat loss remain critical objections