A NEW scheme to build homes on a former coastguard site in Christchurch are to be put forward by developers.

The proposals for the residential development at Steamer Point come from housebuilders Pennyfarthing Homes.

The plans for the site, which are set to include 29 homes ranging from two to four bedrooms, with 12 houses and 17 apartments, will go on display to residents at a public exhibition next week.

Ben Arnold, Pennyfarthing Homes’ land and planning director, said: “Our proposals represent a fantastic opportunity to regenerate a vacant, brownfield site, which has been run-down for a number of years.

“This is a prime location for residential development and we are seeking to create a landmark scheme for Christchurch, which meets the exemplary design and construction standards that we have built our reputation on.”

More than 430 households and businesses have been invited to the exhibition, which will be held on Tuesday from 3pm to 7pm at St Mark’s Hall, Hinton Wood Avenue, Highcliffe.

The event is an opportunity for members of the public and local stakeholders to engage with proposals, speak to the project team and provide comments before a planning application is submitted to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council.

Mr Arnold: “Our project team is looking forward to presenting our plans to the community at the forthcoming public exhibition and receiving feedback on what we have done so far.”

Pennyfarthing Homes has completed the purchase of the site, which was formerly owned by the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA).

Outline planning permission was secured by the MCA to build up to 26 new homes on the site on appeal in 2015 after twice being refused by Christchurch Borough Council due to concerns from residents.

These fears centred on overdevelopment, loss of character, loss of protected trees and inadequacy of parking.

Issues focusing on the impact of cliff stability and impact on highway safety were also raised before the decision was made.

A Pennyfarthing Homes spokesperson said the inclusion of apartments in their plans had allowed for a reduction in the overall building footprint in comparison to previous schemes.

The developers’ proposals locate the housing at the southern part of the site to help retain separation distances from existing properties.

Interested residents can also find out more about Pennyfarthing’s plans by contacting the consultation team on PennyfarthingHomes@becg.com or on the freephone information line, 0800 298 7040.

A dedicated project website – steamerpoint.consultationonline.co.uk – has also been established to provide updates throughout the project.