Romsey residents should be aware that one of the town’s most loved green spaces and gateway to the countryside is under threat of housing development.

The Diocese of Winchester, one of the wealthiest landowners in Hampshire, intends to partner with a developer for a significant housing development on a field they own on the south side of Crampmoor Lane. The proposal is completely at odds with the stated environmental stewardship and community enhancement aims and values of the Diocese, and incidentally the views of the Head of the Church of England, King Charles, a great champion of the environment. There has been no consultation and to date the Diocese have actively declined to meet with concerned residents.

The site is not in the draft Local Plan and not earmarked by the Council for development, it is purely a ‘speculative development’.

A no through road, the single-track lane is an oasis from busy traffic and is unique not just for those who live there, but also for the many families, ramblers, dog walkers, runners, cyclists, horse riders and others from Romsey who all enjoy the wellbeing benefits of exercise and engagement with nature. This was very evident during Covid when the Lane was a popular escape from isolation. Providing direct walking access to open countryside, ancient woodland, farmland and a ford over the River Tadburn, Crampmoor Lane is a vital and cherished pedestrian link between town and rural Romsey. It is also a haven for valuable wildlife including several species of endangered bats, Great Crested newts and grass snakes. 

Crampmoor Lane is steeped in history with the railway and crossing often cited as early inspiration for a young Wilbert Awdry, author of Thomas the Tank Engine.

Please sign this petition to ask that The Diocese of Winchester reconsider their potential deal with a developer and withdraw it.