FORDINGBRIDGE is set to see 74 new houses built in the town following the approval of plans.

The homes at Forde Valley, a mile northwest of the town centre, form the first phase of Sandle Park, a 342-home development by Pennyfarthing Homes.

1,700 new trees, a play area, informal open spaces and a 2.4ha alternative natural recreational green space are also included in the plans.

The first phase will see 25% of the homes designated as affordable, which includes shared ownership schemes, affordable rent and first homes.

Housing options range from one-to-three-bed apartments in a manor-style building to two-and-three bed bungalows, and spacious two, three and four-bed houses.

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Pennyfarthing said the homes received “overwhelming support”.

He said: “We are delighted to have received overwhelming support from New Forest District Council’s planning committee for the first 74 homes at Sandle Park.

“Members of the planning committee praised the layout and appearance of the development, including the feature apartment building and the use of bungalows in the layout.

“The mix of properties will serve a range of homebuyers’ needs here in Fordingbridge, creating a diverse community with a deep sense of connection to nature, thanks to its abundance of greenspaces.”

Work is expected to start later this year.