Originally open farmland, Bushfield Camp was established during the Second World War as a training unit for British and American soldiers. After the war it had a variety of uses and eventually closed in the 1970s. Since then local residents have been able to wander over the whole site, enjoying enviable views towards Winchester. In the decades that have passed, the two storey military buildings have been reclaimed by nature. Bushfield is designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) and provides a much needed green buffer zone for wildlife.
The land is owned by the Church Commissioners and there have been several proposals over the decades to develop the site. The latest proposal include buildings a hotel, student accommodation, office buildings, retail, café and a multi-storey car park – buildings up to 4 storeys high and visible from Winchester city centre. There is huge local opposition to the proposals which seek to attract up to 3,000 people to the site every day. Local infrastructure will be totally unable to cope with the projected additional 4,500 car journeys a day that the site will generate.
Badger Farm Parish Council is opposed to the proposed development at Bushfield Camp and has employed a professional planning consultant to give advice and represent the parish council at hearings, including those relating to the new local plan.
Local Plan Examination – Winchester District Local Plan
If you oppose this overdevelopment, you can get involved by visiting the Help Safe Bushfield Camp website https://savebushfieldcamp.com/