CONTROVERSIAL plans to build 640 new homes in Harnham have been given the green light.

Bovis Homes, part of the newly-formed Vistry Group, has been granted planning permission for the project off Netherhampton Road.

This is despite a large number of objections to the plans due to environmental issues and concerns with the effect the development would have on local infrastructure.

Read more: Objections to plan for 640 new homes in Harnham

Work is set to start next year and Bovis Homes says it will spend more than £13million in the local community, including on education, the Salisbury Transport Strategy, a new doctors’ surgery and local air quality projects.

A total of 40 per cent of the new homes will be affordable housing.

A new two-form entry primary school will also be built as part of the development.

Robert Winstone, senior strategic development manager at Bovis Homes, said: “We are delighted to have achieved this outline planning permission for much needed modern, affordable homes in Harnham.

“Bovis Homes looks forward to starting build work on this project to benefit the future of Harnham and the wider Salisbury area, both in terms of quality housing but also to help improve the community further with investment in schools, health, transport and the environment, including an open space and play areas.”