MAJOR plans to build more than 400 homes have been changed after a fierce response from hundreds of residents.

Just months after a similarly large project was approved in Ringwood, developers Crest Nicholson have ramped up their hopes of building up to 443 new homes off Moortown Lane.

Originally submitted in December 2021 seeking 491 homes, the developer says it has changed its plans in response to feedback from hundreds of concerned residents who fear the town’s infrastructure would struggle to cope.

These fears have been exacerbated by the recent approval of a 400-home development just over a mile away off Hightown Road in Ringwood.

As well as reducing the number of homes, Crest Nicholson has restricted the height of some properties proposed for the western edge of the site to “protect the private amenity of existing residents at adjacent plots”.

Bournemouth Echo: Moortown Lane in Ringwood.Moortown Lane in Ringwood.

It has also adapted plans for the existing junction between Moortown Lane and Christchurch Road with a two-lane exit from Moortown Lane, replacing the originally proposed mini roundabout.

At present, the scheme would be split into two phases. The first phase comprises 150 dwellings as part of the detailed application, while the remaining 293 homes form part of the main outline application.

In addition, there are plans for village greens, children’s play areas, walking routes and 9.57Ha of Alternative Natural Recreational Greenspace (ANRG).

It is also proposed that 50 per cent of the homes will be affordable.

A Crest Nicholson spokesperson told the Echo: “We are continuing to engage with all statutory consultees and the council on the application.

Bournemouth Echo: Masterplan for 443-home development off Moortown Lane in RingwoodMasterplan for 443-home development off Moortown Lane in Ringwood (Image: Pegasus Group)

“In response to consultee feedback, the revised submission includes a softening of the streetscape through amended parking design and additional tree planting, greater distancing of plots from the western boundary, and four defined character areas that lend themselves to local Ringwood vernacular.

“In addition, the football pitches to the south of Moortown Lane will be retained in their current use for the benefit of the local community and Ringwood Town Football Club.

“We expect the revised plans will be brought to committee in late 2023, enabling us to be a step closer to delivering much need high-quality new homes for the region.”

In the amended application, they also said: “The development at Moortown Lane will be a highly desirable place to live for the 21st century and beyond.”