PLANS to extend an allotment space in Beggarwood have been met with fierce criticism by ward councillor Dan Putty.

Town planning consultants Southern Planning submitted plans to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (BDBC) last month to expand Old Beggarwood Lane’s allotments.

If passed, the planning application would see the erection of fencing, internal and external track and car park expansion, alterations to the footpath and wider space for the allotments.

However Cllr Putty, ward councillor for Hatch Warren and Beggarwood, has blasted the proposals of an amenity “the community have tolerated, but not supported”.

Cllr Putty told The Gazette: “When this allotment was proposed to the residents of Beggarwood in 1994, we didn’t want it and now they’re asking to extend it. I don’t see why because the residents have made it clear they do not want it or need it, so why expand it? I strongly objected the plans before it was built and I object to them now.

“The plans show that the roads and car park will be near a children’s play area so there will be a lot of hassle and the proposals are not in keeping with the park’s woodland appearance. It’s going to be horrendous.”

The extension would be built alongside the current allotment which sits next to Old Beggarwood Lane. 

Cllr Mark Ruffell, BDBC’s cabinet member for planning and infrastructure, however said there was currently a waiting list for allotments in the borough.

Cllr Ruffell added: “The proposed Beggarwood allotment expansion will help to reduce this, and is just one of a number of council projects that will ensure as many residents as possible can grow their own produce.”