CONCERNS have been raised that the construction of two new homes in Highcliffe would “tear the heart out” of a conservation area.

Merryfield Homes put forward plans to develop the land off Chewton Common Road in February describing them as “attractive and high quality”.

However, dozens of letters objecting to the proposals have been submitted to BCP Council describing them as having “all the worst elements” of a housing scheme.

Members of the council’s planning committee will consider the application next week.

The site falls within the Bramble Lane conservation area – one of 12 areas designated within the borough of Christchurch.

The developer is hoping to build two three-bedroom homes on the site, which it describes as an area with “good amenities and transport links”.

But the scheme has attracted heavy criticism with concerns raised about the future of the “exquisite rural gem” and the loss of habitat including 11 protected trees.

David Underhill, who lives in Bramble Lane which backs on to the earmarked site, said: “We cannot overestimate the richness of wildlife here.

“To tear out the heart of the conservation area in order to facilitate new development would deprive future generations of a unique treasure within the borough.”

He was joined 32 other objectors who echoed concerns about the impact developing the land could have.

James Rose, a former resident of Bramble Lane said: “The conservation area is under threat.

“It is essential that action be taken to preserve this wonderful conservation area before it is irreparably damaged.”

The developer had a biodiversity survey carried out as part of the submitted plans which recommends that mitigation measures be included to avoid the loss of wildlife habitat.

Members of the BCP Council planning committee will consider the application at its meeting on Thursday (June 27).

A report published ahead of the meeting says the development is “compatible” with the character of the conservation area.

“The council encourages sustainable development,” it says. “This seeks to strike a balance between the economic benefit of the development, the environmental harm that results from the loss of protected trees and the social benefits derived from the creation of much-needed housing.”

Councillors are being recommended to grant permission, subject to conditions including provision for the identified actions to be carried out.