Plans to build 20 homes have been recommended for approval despite over 50 objections by residents. 

A proposal to build the homes, including 16 houses and four one-bedroom flats, is in place for the land near Everton Nurseries, Christchurch Road, near Milford on Sea.

Described as an 'insult' to residents who have supported the nurseries' business for over 100 years, the objections by nearby residents have been joined by Hordle Parish Council, which has expressed concerns on a number of different grounds. 

Hordle Parish Council said: "The proposed development will have a detrimental effect on the openness of the green belt and is contrary to planning policy and the parish council does not consider there to be any very special circumstances which would justify such inappropriate development.

"Hordle Parish Council is concerned that this development will expand the settlement boundary of Everton village and could set a precedent for future development.

"It is concerned about the density/ layout of the affordable housing which appears cramped. It considers the current plans to be overdevelopment of the site and that houses have poor relation to parking provision."

In a letter to the case officer Judith Garrity, 27 residents have expressed objections to the plans welcoming the 'outright rejection' of plans suggested by HPC.

In the letter written by Dr David Miller, a resident from Shepherds Way, Everton, on behalf of the residents, they have complained of building on green belt land, the proposed buildings being 'too densely-packed and intrusive' and inadequate vehicle and pedestrian access.

The letter said: "The proposed development will appear as a dominant group of structures within its surroundings. This will result in a harmful, urbanising influence on the green belt, eroding its openness.

"Councillors can see that there is very widespread concern from residents in Everton village against this proposal. The undersigned represent the depth and strength of concern that has been raised. We urge councillors to reject this proposal"

A total of 50% of the housing is planned to be made affordable and development will require the demolishing of existing buildings on site used in part of the nursery site.

Plans will be discussed in the New Forest District Council meeting on May 8.