This could be a sign of things to come as plans to build housing close to a busy level crossing in Petersfield have been submitted.

A planning application to replace two commercial buildings on the corner of Penns Road and Station Road with five townhouses has been lodged with the South Downs National Park Authority.

Applicants Penns Properties Ltd say the commercial buildings wedged on the thin site between the signal box, railway and Penns Road have been vacant for some time despite a “comprehensive marketing exercise”.

There is an advert for furniture removals in the window with a mobile phone number but calls weren’t answered when the Post called on Monday.

The plan is to demolish a pair of two-storey commercial buildings, which occupy the space between Station Road, the signal box, railway and 2 Penns Road, and replace them with five three-storey townhouses.

If plans are approved, the townhouses will contain a pair of two-bedroom units and a handful of four-bedroom properties, with all dwellings being open market.

The existing car park between 2 Penns Road and the building earmarked for demolition will be retained but only seven spaces are proposed with housing being built above.

The site is “highly sustainable” while ornate brick detailing, like that on the Dragon Court development, and zinc window surrounds are proposed in a scheme that “draws inspiration from the traditional architectural character of the locality.”

“The proposed development is designed sympathetically with local townscape without compromising the setting nor character of the adjacent conservation area,” said a spokesperson for PLC Architects.

The application is likely to be discussed by the Petersfield Town Council planning application when they meet at 6.30pm next Tuesday (September 16) in the Festival Hall Rose Room.

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