Dorset housebuilder wins permission for new development
Dorset housebuilder and developer AJC Group has received detailed planning permission from the planning inspectorate for the development of 25 new family homes.
Located inDibden Purlieu on the edge of the New Forest the 0.9-hectare (2.2 acre) site provides an opportunity to deliver much-needed housing for the local community.
The Hythe and Dibden Neighbourhood Development Plan has highlighted a need for smaller more affordable housing that is suitable for first time buyers and young families. AJC Group’s plans include 25 family homes with a mixture of two-bedroom, three-bedroom and four-bedroom houses.
The approved plans were revised following an initial refusal from New Forest District Council for plans for 37 homes.
AJC Group reviewed the reasons for previous refusal and worked closely with stakeholders and planning officers to put forward a viable proposal to help meet the needs outlined in the Hythe and Dibden Neighbourhood Plan and, to contribute towards the NFDC housing land supply targets, and much needed new homes for the area.
In addition to the 25 homes, plans include 56 car parking spaces with at least two for each property, and secure bike storage.
All homes will have private amenity space and the development will include two areas of open space and opportunities for biodiversity net gain.
Simon McFarlane, planning director at AJC Group said: “We are thrilled to have received the go ahead from the Planning Inspectorate for our development plans in Dibden Purlieu. It’s disappointing that we were forced to go down the appeal route and suffer additional expense and delays when it was clear that this is a sustainable development proposal which should have received support from the council’s decision makers.
“At AJC Group, our aim is to deliver lasting change by building affordable homes in sustainable vibrant communities, and this is exactly our vision for Dibden Purlieu. It is well known there is a shortage of housing in the New Forest area, particularly for first time buyers, and those looking for affordable housing options. So, we’re looking forward to getting started on site and providing the opportunity for 25 local families to secure their future home.”
The site’s location is highly sustainable, just 500m from the centre of Dibden Purlieu. Local amenities including shops, services, schools, and public transport facilities are within easy walking and cycling distance. A bus stop is located within 300m providing services to many surrounding villages and towns including Southampton city centre.
AJC Group currently has four sites under construction including Lindsay Road and The Sloop, which are located in Poole and The Sonnet in Bournemouth. In Dorchester a partnership project with Aster to deliver 57 affordable homes is well underway. AJC Group is on track to deliver over 200 mixed-tenure homes during 2023, reflecting a total construction value in excess of £100m. The firm has become one of the most active residential development specialists across the Wessex region and has made a commitment to build 500 affordable homes by 2028.
