Posbrook Lane Development Campaign

Titchfield Village Trust has always strived to protect our village's unique character and heritage. A significant chapter in this endeavour was the campaign against large-scale housing developments on Posbrook Lane.

The Initial Proposal: 158 Houses

In 2019, Foreman Homes submitted a planning application to construct 158 houses on a site off Posbrook Lane, nestled between Bellfield and Posbrook Farm. This proposal raised concerns among residents and conservationists alike, as the development threatened to disrupt the integrity of the adjacent conservation areas of Titchfield Village and Titchfield Abbey. The Meon Valley strategic gap, considered vital for maintaining the village's historic landscape, was also at risk.

TVT, alongside over 250 individuals, lodged formal objections to the proposal.

TVT Chairman, Nick Girdler, said, “Since they put in the first application things have moved forward on Wellborne and they have also moved on their new housing proposals so hopefully the inspector will see that.”

Fareham Borough Council's planning officers echoed these concerns, leading to the Planning Committee's near-unanimous decision to refuse the application. This outcome was a testament to the community's collective voice and commitment to preserving Titchfield's heritage.

A Revised Proposal: 57 Houses

Despite the initial refusal, Foreman Homes returned with a scaled-down proposal in late 2019, seeking to build 57 dwellings on the same site. After a series of reviews and appeals, the Planning Inspectorate granted outline planning permission for this revised plan in early 2022.

Reflecting on the Outcomes

While the approval of the 57-house development was a setback, the earlier success in halting the 158-house proposal highlighted the power of unified community action. TVT's efforts underscored the importance of vigilant advocacy in influencing planning decisions that impact local heritage and environmental sustainability.

Looking Ahead

The experiences from the Posbrook Lane campaigns have reinforced TVT's dedication to safeguarding Titchfield's character. Titchfield Village Trust continues to monitor development proposals, engage with local authorities, and rally community support to ensure that future projects align with the village's historical and environmental values.

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