Andover Town Council are holding a public consultation on a potential land purchase to supply a community asset for the town.

As previously reported, the land north of Ox Drove, part of the Locksbridge Park development, in Picket Piece, was initially reserved for a junior sports pitch, but this is no longer required, with Andover Town Council now proposing to purchase it to ensure it remains a community asset.

Wates Developments and David Wilson Homes Southern, which own the land, sought planning permission for 16 dwellings, which was approved by Test Valley Borough Council in July, although no building work has started yet.

READ MORE: Andover Town Council looking to buy land in Picket Piece

The proposal to buy the land was initially discussed during a full council meeting on Wednesday, November 22. 

Cllr Heather Neate gave the town council an update at an Andover Town Council meeting, held at the Guildhall on Wednesday, January 24.

Andover Advertiser: Cllr Heather Neate discussed the proposal with residentsCllr Heather Neate discussed the proposal with residents (Image: Newsquest staff)

Cllr Neate added during this meetingt that town council officers had met with members of Test Valley Borough Council regarding match funding for the proposed purchase of the land through Section 106 funds, and to discuss the consultation survey to be carried out as part of the project process.

​SEE ALSO: Councillor provides update on Picket Piece land purchase

Andover Town Council are holding a public consultation session today, Monday February 12, with a session hosted at Picket Piece Social Club and Village Hall, with one session running from 10am to 1.30pm, and another session running from 6pm to 8.30pm.

A resident who attended the morning consultation said: "It's a great initiative by the town council to try and save a piece of land that, truthfully is not theirs to save."

Cllr Heather Neate said: "We are here to hear from residents across the town for their views on how best to use the land if we are successful in purchasing it. The land is not just for Picket Piece residents, as whatever facility it ends up being will be something for the whole town to enjoy and use.

"We'd love to hear your views, so please come along and let us know what you think."

The survey for the consultation can also be found online here.