Council gives green light for houses at Emsworth boat yard

Havant Borough Council gave the green light for six houses to be built at Dolphin Quay, in Emsworth, despite 175 objections being received.

More than 50 residents went along to last night’s meeting and several speeches were given against the plan.

But after more than an hour of the proposals being discussed, they were approved by the development management committee.

Jim Garland gave a deputation on behalf of people living in Emsworth.

Speaking after the meeting, he said: ‘It was a very poor decision. The council have cocked up spectacularly.

‘They have totally ignored their own policies by allowing this.’

During his deputation Mr Garland said: ‘We appreciate the value of the site to Emsworth is more than just a developer’s cash cow.

‘For over 200 years Dolphin Quay has been used for boatbuilding and the site and its use is fundamental to the special historic character of Emsworth.’

Charles Ashe, from the Emsworth Residents Association, agreed. He added: ‘I am very disappointed. This is a unique site in Emsworth and the councillors have ignored everything we had to say. It is bitterly disappointing.’

During the meeting, concerns were raised about the size and scale of the proposed homes as well as flooding risks.

Mr Ashe said: ‘These homes don’t provide the type of housing Havant needs. They will only be for people who can afford expensive homes.’

Speaking in favour of the proposal, Councillor David Guest said during the meeting he was content with the flood defences within the development which include building a new sea wall.

‘If each development plays its part for reducing flooding then that is very good,’ he said.

‘Businesses have managed to survive in this location for a very long time and have thrived for many, many moons.’

Councillor Gary Hughes also voted in favour.

He said: ‘I like the modern buildings. This is something different and will add to the street scene.’

As previously reported in The News, in 2014 Havant Borough Council refused the original plans to replace the buildings at Dolphin Quay, on Queen Street, with four houses and a block of flats with five properties.

Developer Wilson House Limited had appealed the decision but later withdrew the appeal.