Romsey - Jumping the Bypass

In March 2002, one of the most important open spaces in Romsey was threatened by a bid to build 110 dwellings and a medical centre. Situated between Romsey town centre and Broadlands Park, the site consisted of over four hectares of open field surrounded by mature trees. For many years it had been used for grazing, as well as occasional fairs, caravan rallies, etc.

CPRE and others objected that the land was not allocated for development. It was separated from the town centre by the busy bypass, forming a valuable green space of much amenity value.

The Borough Council refused the application and, after an enquiry, an appeal was dismissed for being contrary to the Local Plan - the site being designated as countryside and the need for a new medical centre being insufficient to outweigh the main issue.

Test Valley District Group
CPRE Hampshire
May 2006

This page updated 2nd June 2006