New homes development under way in South Downs

New development is progressing in Petersfield on a locally-allocated site in the Neighbourhood Plan.

Reserved Matters Approval has been granted for 85 new homes at Buckmore Farm following the site’s allocation and master planning in the Petersfield Neighbourhood Plan. The developer, Dandara, is now progressing with its construction.

The scheme will deliver mainly two and three-bed homes, with 45% (39 dwellings) provided as affordable housing with a mix of tenures, alongside public open space.

The layout creates varied street scenes and a pedestrian-friendly environment, centred on a tree‑lined ‘spine’ road. Properties face towards open space and a retained protected tree belt, reflecting the site’s edge-of-town character.

Many homes will also enjoy long views towards Butser Hill – the highest point along the South Downs Way –  enhancing their sense of place within the National Park.

A comprehensive landscape and ecology strategy has been secured, including the translocation of existing rush pasture into new drainage basins and significant new tree and hedgerow planting and habitat.

A traditional architecture has been approved, with subsequent discussions on materials as part of efforts to reflect Petersfield’s vernacular. Homes will exceed current Building Regulations through enhanced energy and water efficiency measures and the use of air source heat pumps, helping future residents with running costs and responding to climate change. The town centre will also be within walking and cycling distance for new residents.

Richard Ferguson, Development Management Lead, said: “This development has been years in the making as a strategic allocation in the adopted Petersfield Neighbourhood Plan. We have achieved a scheme of predominantly small to medium sized modern homes along with 45% affordable housing – for which there is a high local need.”