A PROPOSAL for a new service area at junction 6 on the M3 at Basingstoke needs to be fully assessed by the council, according to environmental charity CPRE Hampshire.

Moto is developing plans for a new motorway service area at junction 6 on the M3. It asked for a screening opinion, which considered whether an environmental impact assessment was needed.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has responded by stating that an assessment isn’t required to accompany any planning application that might follow.

Edward Dawson, spokesman for CPRE Hampshire, respondedby saying: “It’s a pity that the council had concluded that an environmental impact assessment is not needed, but that is not the end of the story. The planning system is well able to assess all relevant aspects of this proposal.

“CPRE will press for a range of issues to be given full consideration. We are especially concerned about the impact of the proposal on the Hackwood Park Grade I registered gardens. We will be open-minded until we see the actual application, but we have doubts that a further public service station is required along this stretch of the motorway.”

There are presently services at Fleet and Winchester. These are some 28 miles apart and CPRE suggests they may be sufficient along this section of road. Such sites are also normally sited along a motorway, not at junctions. CPRE believes there may be considerable public concern and opposition to the new facilities being proposed.

Mr Dawson, trustee of CPRE Hampshire, added: “We all use service stations on a motorway drive, but how many stops do we really need? The impact of glaring light and noise on the area is potentially immense. This is a listed park and garden of national importance. It’s bordering the historic estate of Hackwood Park. This site was always part of the local heritage and the integrity of the Hackwood estate should be preserved.”

CPRE Hampshire expects the applicants to make a full case of justification for this proposal. Motorway service areas are commercial ventures, but ones that need to be relevant to the public. CPRE Hampshire will assess any applications that may come forward and reserve its position in relation to opposing the principle of a new service area at Basingstoke.