East Hampshire could face significantly higher-density housing in rural areas under proposed planning reforms, local MP Damian Hinds has warned.

Mr Hinds has raised concerns over the Government’s draft National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which could pave the way for denser housing developments near railway stations.

The proposals follow a decision in December 2024 to nearly double East Hampshire’s housing target, while reducing targets in some urban areas, including parts of Birmingham and London.

Under the draft plans, developments within a “reasonable walking distance” of railway stations would be subject to a “default yes” for housing and mixed-use schemes. Although not formally defined, ministers have previously suggested this could mean up to 800 metres.

The framework proposes minimum densities of more than 40 homes per hectare within this zone — significantly higher than typical developments in East Hampshire.

Even higher densities would apply in areas considered “well-connected”, defined as being within the top 60 Travel to Work Areas in England and served by at least two trains per hour in each direction. In those locations, developments would be expected to reach at least 50 dwellings per hectare.

While the draft does not explicitly list affected areas, separate government data suggests all East Hampshire stations fall within Travel to Work Areas linked to Portsmouth, Basingstoke, or Guildford and Aldershot.

There is also uncertainty around train service criteria. Government guidance indicates the requirement could include stations that do not yet meet the threshold but have a “reasonable prospect” of doing so.

The changes could affect market towns such as Alton, but smaller villages including Bentley and Rowlands Castle may see the greatest impact, with proposed densities far exceeding current levels.

Mr Hinds said: “East Hampshire has already been required to take unreasonable and unrealistic increases in housing targets. These new proposals would be very damaging if put into action.

“In principle, it makes sense to site homes near stations – but you can’t take the same policy approach that may be right for sizeable towns and just apply it the same way in rural areas. Some of what is set out so far is also unclear and I am urgently seeking reassurances from ministers.

“East Hampshire is already facing overall targets which are way too high, and I strongly oppose inappropriate levels of housing density which would dramatically change the character of the area.”

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The MP has written to the housing minister outlining his objections and seeking clarification on the proposals.