A BOROUGH councillor has raised concerns about a proposed development of 138 new all-affordable houses in Basingstoke.

The plan, submitted by Persimmon Homes Thames Valley, would see all the proposed houses in Merton Rise become affordable dwellings, owned and managed by Vivid Homes.

However, Cllr Simon Minas-Bound expressed worries that building exclusively affordable housing could lead to social problems within the community.

He has made a plea to halt the large-scale plan, citing potential consequences such a project could have.

READ MORE: Details for final phase of Merton Rise development submitted

The warning comes after Persimmon Homes Thames Valley made an application to change the Section 106 agreement for the plan for 138 houses which has already been granted.

As part of this, Vivid Homes requires the first 14 homes and 83 market housing to be delivered as either shared ownership or social rented units.

However, Cllr Minas-Bound has warned that replicating past mistakes could result in long-term detrimental effects.

"Developing exclusively affordable housing is a grave mistake that could sow the seeds of social issues within our community," he said.

"We must not forget the lessons from the 1960s, where similar ventures led to concentrated poverty and isolation."

Reflecting on the current state of affairs within Sherborne St John and Rooksdown ward, Cllr Minas-Bound pointed out the success of a more integrated approach to housing.

"Our experience with mixed-tenure housing, or 'pepper-potting,' demonstrates that diverse communities thrive," he said.

"Areas with a balanced mix of housing types have lower levels of social issues and local problems."

Highlighting the council's achievements in affordable housing, Cllr Minas-Bound said: "As a council, we've delivered the second-highest numbers of affordable housing in the southeast by prioritising mixed-tenure developments.

"This proposed development sets a worrying precedent under the current Independent/Labour/Liberal Democrat-run council," he said.

"If allowed to proceed unchecked, it could mark the beginning of a troubling trend."

SEE ALSO: Latest applications submitted to Basingstoke borough council

The councillor urged community members to voice their opinions on the matter.

"We cannot allow this to happen. I encourage residents to make their voices heard and provide feedback through the provided weblink."

To read more about the application, search with reference 24/00982/VLA and 20/00854/FUL on Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council's planning portal.