PLANS for up to 170 new homes on an established industrial site in Christchurch have been lodged – but they have reduced in size.

John Reid & Son Ltd, REIDsteel, has applied to Christchurch Borough Council for outline planning permission for the development.

The homes are proposed for the four-acre site in Reid Street after it relocates to a new facility.

The plans include a mixture of two and three-bedroom houses and one and two-bedroom flats.

REIDsteel, which celebrates its centenary this year, held a public consultation on the proposals last October and from feedback reduced the number of homes by 22 per cent.

Simon Boyd, managing director of REIDsteel, said: “REIDsteel is committed to leaving a legacy of much-needed housing when we leave our current home of more than 50 years.

“We have listened to comments made about our initial proposals and consulted with our professional advisors before drawing up our outline planning application.

“If approved, this plan will allow us to relocate to a purpose-built site where we can invest in the latest technology and significantly increase productivity with all operations under one roof.

“It will remove heavy industry away from the town centre, cut heavy traffic movements from Reid Street, reduce noise and disruption for neighbours and allow us to reduce our carbon footprint.”

Residents at the consultation event had mixed views on the scheme, with an acceptance of the need for housing but fears of overlooking other homes.

REIDsteel is aiming to relocate its operations within the boundaries of Christchurch Borough Council.

The firm, which employs around 130 people, has not yet announced its preferred location for its new site.

The planning application is due to go before planners for a decision in April, however this will be under the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council after Local Government Reorganisation has taken place.