Legal agreements to build almost 200 homes on agricultural land in Calmore have been signed as plans have been approved, despite furious objections from more than 40 locals.
Some 196 homes, with 69 being affordable housing, are set to be built between Cooks Lane and the A36.
The plans were green lit in December 2024 subject to the completion of a 106 legal agreement, but applicants Merlion Capital Corporation and the New Forest District Council have now finalised the completion of this paperwork.
READ MORE: Plan for 196 homes north of Cooks Lane at Calmore approved
Residents submitted 41 letters of objection to the housing scheme, though ten were written in support, as objectors argued the scheme will devour a "huge" area of countryside rich in wildlife.
Those protesting the plans included Totton and Eling Town Council, which publicly said that residents already living in the area will be "surrounded" by new housing once the development has been completed.
Housing is set to comprise of a mix of one, two, three and four bedroom properties and public open space and Alternative Natural Recreational Greenspace will be provided.
Developers say that there will be a connected fabric of green spaces to frame the development as a landscape led scheme with a substantial green spine.
This including important tree belts, native hedgerows, woodland blocks and water courses, with these green spaces providing opportunities for children's play, dog walking and cycling among other activities.
READ MORE: Flurry of objections over plan to build 196 homes on farmland north of Totton
A report to councillors said the scheme would have "significant social benefits" and would also make a major contribution to housing supply in the area, though ward members raised their concerns before plans were approved.
Councillor John Sleep mentioned fears over the safety of pedestrians using Pauletts Lane, one of the roads near the site, but did admit that "everyone accepts" that the area has "got to have housing".
Councillor Joe Reilly was also worried about the potential impact on road safety, saying he was "very, very concerned" that there are no pavements on Pauletts Lane.
KPPC Planning Consultants represented the applicant, and KPPC planning director Adam Bennett said that the approval of final outline planning permission represented the "fruition of tireless work" by his team to "realise the potential" of the site.