Whitchurch Bere Hill: Genko submits plan to build 115 homes

The proposed development will be situated on land east of Bere Hill in Whitchurch, and includes a range of facilities including a public house.

The plan, which includes a mix of one- to five-bed houses, has been submitted by Genko Ltd to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

In addition to the residential properties and provision for a pub, the plan proposes associated parking spaces, employment units, public open spaces and local play areas.

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A "sustainable urban drainage system" and a pumping station will also be set up, according to a planning statement submitted by the developer.

The site's location, known as 'Bere Hill,' is currently a pastoral grassland that houses The Oak Tree nursery and Whitchurch Scout Hut.

The site is situated outside the Whitchurch settlement boundary and directly adjoins the town.

Genko Ltd, in its application, said it has actively engaged with key stakeholders and the community.

The red area is where the new houses are proposed to be built. (Image: Genko Ltd)

The company said it conducted a public consultation event at Whitchurch Parish Hall in November 2022, which was attended by more than 300 attendees.

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As previously reported, Whitchurch councillor Chloe Ashfield has spoken on multiple occasions expressing her views against the proposal.

She previously said: "Their plans appear to be flawed, unjustified and cynical. Particularly the proposed 150-space car park in an area of outstanding, natural beauty."

Following the submission of full planning application, Cllr Ashfield further expressed her concerns about the development.

She said: "Genko is being disingenuous in seeking approval for this application without undertaking a full environmental impact assessment. We know their masterplan goes far beyond this initial application and they need to be stopped in their tracks."

A campaign has been launched in April 2021 by Lucie Follett-Maitland of Whitchurch Conservation Group (WCG) to halt construction in areas located north of Whitchurch railway station, by Bere Mill and on The Gables adjacent to the Mill trail.

Reacting to the concerns raised by the councillor, a spokesperson for the developer said: “Genko is aiming to deliver some of the much needed quality homes which are underprovided in Whitchurch and across the Basingstoke & Deane Borough.

"The proposed development will deliver a minimum of 40% affordable homes, a new pub, local playground and flexible employment units. It is located within walking distance of Whitchurch Station making it a transport sustainable location.”