A DOCUMENT which will help guide future development in an area of Bramley was adopted by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

Having previously been recommended by the cabinet, members of the borough council heard how the Upper Cufaude Farm Development Brief Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) could act as a “blueprint” for future developments.

At a full council meeting on Thursday last week, cabinet member for planning and infrastructure Councillor Mark Ruffell said that the document provides an opportunity to add detail to the borough council’s planning policy.

In the SPD, the development outlined would cover approximately 26 hectares of land and is capable of accommodating around 390 homes alongside relevant community infrastructure.

Cllr Ruffell said: “It [the SPD] sets out guidance that will help to ensure the delivery of a high quality development, the provision of an excellent living environment for residents, and responds positively to the opportunities and constraints associated with the site’s characteristics and context.”

When the document was presented to cabinet, there had been representation from residents raising concerns about the preservation of amphibians along Cufaude Lane.

This was something which Cllr Ruffell said that the borough council had to make a conscious effort to help with.

Cllr Ruffell added: “We have to do what we can to protect biodiversity where we can.

“If we can have a positive stance on preventing the harm of biodiversity in the area, we will hopefully see it thrive within our borough.”

He added: “I hope this document will add valuable details by what we can apply to further planning applications and development of this area.”

Councillors resolved to adopt the new SPD.