Plans for a sustainable new community in the South Downs National Park have taken a major step forward as Dandara receives detailed planning approval for an 85-home scheme in Petersfield.
Set to be delivered on the edge of the countryside yet within walking distance of the town centre, the new development, Buckmore Green, will bring a mix of one to five-bedroom homes, including 39 affordable properties, representing 45% of the total. This includes 13 homes for Discount to Open Market Value sale, 17 for affordable rent and 9 for shared ownership – exceeding the initial affordable requirement by 15% and helping address a clear local need.
Designed with both people and planet in mind, the scheme includes over 3.5 acres of green open space and will significantly improve access to the South Downs through enhancements to an existing public right of way, making it more accessible to all.
In addition to high-spec family homes, Buckmore Green will feature strong environmental credentials throughout – with air source heat pumps, green roofs, sustainable drainage (SuDS), a network of blue-green infrastructure and the planting of more than 100 trees and extensive native hedgerows. A newly integrated swale system and accessible walking routes will help promote nature-led living while reducing flood risk and supporting biodiversity.
Ben Fewsdale, Managing Director at Dandara Southern, said: “Petersfield is an area where any housebuilder would want to deliver new homes given that the town and surrounding areas show demonstrable demand for family housing and a clear requirement for affordable homes. The site will be produced with a keen eye on sustainability not only through construction but also through the use of air-source heat pumps, green roofs and well supported blue and green infrastructure.
“Situated on the edge of countryside yet only a twenty-minute walk from the town-centre, Buckmore Green will prove to be an aspirational location for anybody looking to move to, or within, the area. The acquisition and successful planning journey on this development site represents the continued growth for the Southern business, as we seek to continually enhance our presence across the South of England.”
Homes at Buckmore Green are expected to launch in 2026, with further details to be announced in due course.