PLANS to bring four massive warehouses the size of 38 football pitches to the countryside close to M3 Junction 7 are one step closer.

As previously reported, Newlands Developments unveiled plans for the 82-acre development in June, on Oakdown Farm, sandwiched between the M3 and A30.

Basingstoke Gateway would involve 271,000 square metres of commercial and industrial floorspace, and could bring over 1,500 new jobs and £100 million of investment to the town.

Now, plans are one step closer after the developers submitted an application for outline planning application, with all matters reserved except for access.

This means that it will be decided solely on the principle of development, and the access, with all other matters coming forward in future applications.

Jo Davis, Principal at Avison Young, who led the consultation process, said: “Logistics is a key area for growth with significant commercial demand plus an identified need for logistics and distribution space in the Basingstoke and Deane area.

"The developers are already in detailed discussions with local, regional and national occupiers who have requirements in the region.”

As previously reported, the site is located directly opposite the site rumoured to be where a new hospital could be situated.

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Included in the Basingstoke Gateway proposals is a new roundabout on the A30 which would allow access to the site. This would be shared with the new hospital site, should it be built there.

Avison Young say that the recent consultation received 13,000 comments, "with a clear majority expressing positive support for the investment and job creation".

And if the planning application is approved, development could commence next spring.

John Barker, Development Director at Newlands added: “With Basingstoke Gateway there is the potential for world class business activity to be served across the local economy. And at this time of employment uncertainty in the wider economy, a wide range of jobs will be delivered for local residents, from entry level and unskilled; apprenticeships; through to skilled technical and managerial roles.”

The application for outline planning permission will encompass storage, distribution and employment space, with ancillary offices developed over three zones.

The masterplan is also said to be working towards achieving zero carbon by 2030, in line with Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s net zero pledge, through the use of sustainable energy, and a sustainable travel plan.

You can see the full plans, and comment on the application, by searching reference number 20/02162/OUT on BDBC's planning portal.