PLANS to build nearly 50 homes in Oakley have been given the thumbs-up by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (BDBC).

The application, which includes 48 new homes to be built at land at Park Farm, in Station Road, were put before the development control committee at BDBC on Wednesday, 7 February.

During the meeting councillors approved the plans, which were submitted by Wates Developments for the site, which was marked for housing in the Oakley and Deane Neighbourhood Plan.

The application also includes pedestrian and cycle access.

The developers will also make £36,918 available, which will be put towards maintenance and improvements at Oakley Park Cricket Club and the provision of an on-site Kickabout Area. In addition £16,000 will be given towards maintenance improvements along one of the footpaths, £249,074 will be put towards Oakley Infant and Junior Schools, £7,000 towards the School Travel Plan and 10 allotments with car parking.

Chairman of the planning committee for Oakley and Deane Parish Council, Cllr Wendy Gavin, said at the meeting: “Wates have consulted fully with the parish council regarding this application, and have listened to the request to move the vehicular access on Station Road further to the south of the railway bridge in order to make it safer and extend the sightline at this new junction.

“The parish council also understands that Hampshire County Council is working with the landowners at the southern end of Station Road to eliminate the current problem with flooding in that area.”

As part of the application 19 out of the 48 new homes have been earmarked to be used as affordable housing, for rent or shared ownership.

Emma Gruenbaum, from Wates Developments, said: “We are delighted that Park Farm has been given the green light. This proposal will deliver attractive new homes to meet identified housing need on a site which the Neighbourhood Plan support.

“Our ambition has always been to create a new space for the growing community with facilities to support its residents and to deliver this in a way that is sensitive to its rural environment. Wates Developments is delighted to have worked with all involved to gain support from the council and is excited about its role in assisting the delivery of the neighbourhood plan.”