A PLANNING application has been approved for the landscaping of two new apartment blocks on Lymington Road in Highcliffe.

The demolition of two buildings and the erection of two blocks containing 17 apartments was submitted in July 2017 and approved in November of the same year, despite 17 objections at the time from residents.

The development, which fronts onto the A337 Lymington Road, is “nearly completed” according to the planning report. However new plans have been submitted to vary the approved plans from 2017 regarding drainage and landscaping.

The proposed changes include the inclusion of a rumble strip either side of the entrance, a closed boarded fence on eastern boundary of the site and the removal of car port at the front of the site.

Although the Tree and Landscape Officer from BCP Council raised concerns about the proposed changes “due to its negative impact on the local landscape”, the changes were considered “acceptable” and approved.

The access arrangement is as previously approved by a Highways Officers from BCP Council, with pedestrian visibility splays on either side.

If these amendments are adhered to, construction on the two plots is expected to be completed in the next few months.