GROUND has been broken for phase one of a major housing development which could see up to 342 new homes built.

Construction has officially started on the controversial project to redevelop land to the west of Whitsbury Road in Fordingbridge with homes of varying sizes and new greenspace.

Phase one of the development will see 64 new homes built at Whitsbury Green following the major project’s approval last year, despite hundreds of objections.

Pennyfarthing is building two, three- and four-bedroom houses, flats, and bungalows on the site and says it is offering opportunities for first time buyers, second steppers, families and downsizers.

Bournemouth Echo: Pennyfarthing Homes officials with teachers and pupils from Fordingbridge Infant and Junior School Federation.Pennyfarthing Homes officials with teachers and pupils from Fordingbridge Infant and Junior School Federation. (Image: Pennyfarthing)

The application, which was reduced from an initial 403 properties, was narrowly approved by New Forest District Council in September last year amid infrastructure and traffic concerns.

District councillor Maureen Holding warned of an “enormous impact” to traffic and travel in the market town and said there would be “chaos for people trying to move around”.

To help combat this, a new roundabout will be built in Whitsbury Road along with a new bridge over Sweatford Waters.

Plans also reveal a large Alternative Natural Recreational Greenspace, two play areas, as well as a boardwalk and viewing platform.

Sheetal Smith, sales and marketing director at Pennyfarthing Homes, said: “As you would expect from this sought-after location and quality new development, we have been inundated with enquiries since we secured the land over two years ago.

“Prospective buyers will now have the opportunity to come and view the detailed plans for the first time, take home a brochure and even secure an off-plan reservation on phase one, for plots that will be available this winter.”

According to the developer, all properties will be built to a high specification with energy efficiency, meaning buyers can expect low maintenance costs.

The government backed scheme First Homes will be available at Whitsbury Green at a discount of 30 per cent. The discounts will apply to the homes indefinitely.

Pennyfarthing is anticipating its four-bedroom show home will be ready for viewing at the end of October this year.