Developer Harrow Estates - part of Barratt Redrow - is preparing to submit initial plans to East Hampshire District Council for 1,100 houses off Chawton Park Road in Alton.

It is making an Environmental Impact Assessment Scoping Opinion Request to identify issues that an Environmental Impact Assessment accompanying a planning application would have to address.

Harrow Estates’ plans would include a local centre plus land for a new primary school, and up to 40 per cent of the houses would be ‘affordable’ homes.

Steve Neal, the planning director at Harrow Estates, said: “Our plans for land south-west of Alton are a real opportunity to plan properly for Alton’s future.

“This large site can support a range of much-needed community facilities, both on-site and through off-site contributions which will improve local infrastructure.

“This new neighbourhood is the most sustainable location to meet the large-scale need for new homes in the district. The proposal presents an opportunity to improve local public transport options, as well as pedestrian and cycle connectivity in the wider area.”

Harrow Estates intends to hold public consultation events early next year.