A BUILDER has reduced the number of homes for a proposed development in Kingsclere amid strong objections from residents.

Vistry initially submitted a hybrid planning application last year, outlining intentions to construct a housing development consisting of 200 houses on land adjacent to Porch Farm. However, it has now opted to reduce the number of proposed houses to 165.

The revised plans have been officially uploaded to the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council planning portal. The plan continues to include provisions for a public open space and a cemetery.

READ MORE: Kingsclere residents object to plans to build 200 houses on land adjoining Porch Farm

The initial proposal had faced staunch opposition from hundreds of residents when it was first unveiled last year.

Despite the reduction in the number of houses, many residents continue to voice their objections, asserting that the development remains unacceptable for the quaint community of Kingsclere.

At the time of reporting, a staggering 354 letters of objection have been posted on the planning portal, compared to only four letters in support.

Interested parties have until Friday, September 29 to submit their feedback on the amended proposal.

Kingsclere is currently home to approximately 1,500 dwellings.

Concerned residents argue that adding 165 houses to the area would represent a substantial 10 per cent increase in both housing and population.

They also express apprehension about the potential increase in traffic congestion, further increasing existing issues in the village and along the A339.

SEE ALSO: Woman suffers injuries after falling from bridge on A339

Residents said in their objecting letters that the village's doctors' surgery is already oversubscribed by 600 people, and there is a pressing need for more parking spaces in the village centre.

Despite the amendments, the development would still overlook and be visible from the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), raising environmental concerns, according to residents.

To view the application search 22/01856/FUL on the borough council's planning portal.