Residents protest chalk downland development near Andover

More than 60 people took part in the demonstration on Saturday, January 10, to protest against the inclusion of the chalk downland, north of Streetway Road in the village of Palestine, as part of the strategic housing allocation in the draft local plan.

The protest highlighted growing local opposition to plans that would see new homes built on open countryside.

The land has been identified by Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) in its draft Local Plan as a potential site for housing, causing concern among villagers.

Residents argue that the site is unsuitable, pointing out that it is the only proposed location with no local amenities within walking distance.

The group of protestors in opposition to the inclusion of the chalk downland field as part of the strategic housing allocation in the draft local plan. (Image: James Getgood)

One resident said: “We have no school, no shop, no pub, no village hall, no church — so why build here?”

Another added that the development would dramatically change the size and character of the village, saying: “It would double the number of houses in Palestine, and the roads are all single track with no pavements.”

Protesters are now calling on councillors to formally review the decision to include the field in the housing allocation.

One resident said: “It makes no sense to build houses so distant from the jobs, shops, secondary schools and medical facilities in Andover.

"We hope that TVBC comes to its senses.”