Hatton has been listed as one of the favoured locations for a 'new settlement' as part of the new South Warwickshire Local Plan (SWLP).

Locals will soon be given another chance to comment on the major planning document which will eventually decide where at least 30,000 houses will be built across Warwick and Stratford districts over the next quarter of a century.

After locals put forward some 736 potential new housing sites, the local authorities have now whittled these down to 36 potential spots - 12 of which could see new settlements created.

Hatton has been shortlisted as one of the new settlement sites, with a major council report listing it as the second "most sustainable" of the options.

If included, the village could see up to 8,156 new houses built across 403 hectares of land.

These developments - which would mostly be in the green belt - would necessitate a new secondary school and up to six new primary schools to be built.

The much-delayed plan will not come into effect until 2027 at the earliest, with major development in Hatton not likely until 2037.

The council's reports also state the fact land in Hatton is already being actively promoted for development is a major plus for choosing the village.

Residents have already voiced their serious opposition to the proposal for 4,500 houses to be built on land owned by the Arkwright Family around Hatton Station.

Councillors from the two councils will meet on Thursday 12 December to consider the next steps of the SWLP, which is likely to see local residents and businesses given their say on these sites and other parts of the plan.

"Not all of these locations will ultimately be required to meet the area's growth needs and the councils will be undertaking further analysis to conclude which locations and specific sites should form part of South Warwickshire's growth strategy," the SWLP website says.

Land around Hatton which could be turned into houses (image via SWLP)

Other potential new settlement sites include Long Marston, Bearley and Wilmcote and the land between Leamington and Wellesbourne.

These - along with Hatton - are the preferred options "based on holistic planning judgement of the evidence collated to date".

Plans suggest the 326 hectares south of Leamington could accommodate 6,500 homes, with 6,762 possible for Bearley and Wilmcote.

The report explained: "The aim of a new settlement in planning terms is to deliver a new community that can fulfil most of its day to day needs within the settlement itself limiting the need to travel. 

"New settlements can provide access to employment opportunities which in turn can create more internalised trips and opportunities to deliver non-motorised infrastructure to create a sustainable environment. 

"Further sustainable credentials can be met through local level service provision and local centres, helping to create 20-minute neighbourhoods. 

"Ensuring education facilities (primary and secondary schools) are provided and accessible by sustainable modes of transport is an important part of reducing car trips."

Warwick and Stratford-on-Avon District Councils are working on SWLP together.

See the full council report here.

Potential new housing sites across Warwick and Stratford districts (image via SWLP)