Richard Belle

Plans for up to 400 new homes at Bere Hill, on the southern edge of Andover, remain under consideration as questions continue over traffic, wildlife and pressure on local services. New transport documents have been submitted to Test Valley Borough Council, while the latest consultation deadline has been extended to Wednesday 25 November 2026. The outline application, reference 26/02098/OUTN, was validated on 29 September and is being promoted by Catesby Estates. What Is Proposed at Bere Hill?

A major employer in Appleshaw, near Andover, could close in January 2027 after Pilgrim’s Europe announced plans to shut its lamb packing plant. The company has started consulting with staff over the proposed closure of its facility at Tilly Down, Appleshaw, which has been part of the local community for many years. The closure is being considered following a review of Pilgrim’s Europe’s lamb business and the planned sale of its abattoir in Llanidloes, Wales, to meat processing company ABP.

Plans for a major new water pipeline linking Andover and Winchester have taken another step forward after Southern Water selected construction company Clancy Docwra for a contract worth more than £39 million. The proposed 22.8km underground pipeline will connect Crab Wood reservoir near Winchester with the Micheldever Road reservoir on the outskirts of Andover, helping to secure the town’s water supply for years to come.