PROPOSALS that would see warehouses built on countryside near Junction 5 of the M3 motorway have taken a step forward, as more concerns are raised over flooding.

As previously reported Obsidian Strategic is currently planning to seek planning permission for 105,000 m2 of commercial logistics floorspace across five warehouses.

Although a planning application is yet to be submitted, documents relating to an early pre-application meeting are available.

They have so far attracted 346 public comments with only two supporters.

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The plans would see the warehouses built on Lodge Farm located between Odiham and Hook.

The proposals would also ask for space for 200 EV charging points.

Developers asked Hart District Council for its opinion – formally known as a ‘scoping opinion’ – in relation to the topics, methods of assessment and the level of detail that would be required in the Environmental Statement that must accompany a future planning application.

Aimee Harris, the council's senior planner for place services, has responded to the developers with a 15-page report covering a number of points from drainage, flooding, archaeology, and the environment.

As previously reported campaigner David Turver said it would be “devastating” if plans go ahead 

On his website called We Heart Hart he states he is objecting to the proposals for several reasons including the groundwater flood risk, the ecological damage and the effect on the surrounding roads.

He said at “least three-quarters of the site would be at risk of groundwater flooding” and no amount of drainage systems “will alter that”.

Ms Harris said in her report: “The proposed development would comprise a major infrastructure project determined as having a likely significant effect on the environment.

“A response from the Local Lead Flooding Authority was received and raises important concerns and deficiencies.”

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She said that “foul waste would be pumped and discharged to a Thames Water manhole” to prevent flooding and a pump station would have to be built. As a result flooding and drainage information would have to “demonstrate that the foul water disposal solution would be feasible”.

Foul water is waste water, which discharges into the drainage system.

She went on to say: “The closeness of the White Water river to the site, particularly to its southwest, would be an important consideration not only in flooding terms but also as a result of the biodiversity associated with the river environment, which would be likely impacted by the development proposed.”

Despite objections, Obsidian Strategic said it would make a “significant” improvement to the A287 “by enabling access and the free flow of traffic, as well as improved footways, pedestrian crossings, and cycle and pedestrian routes between Odiham and Hook”.

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