CONSTRUCTION is underway on homes to replace a much fought over and now demolished pub.

Now developers behind the scheme for the former Harrier Inn in Hamble want to hear from the public how they would like good causes to benefit from the scheme.

They also ask local charities to come forward to take up their offer of donations.

As previously reported, demolition work began in January after a campaign by locals failed to save the pub.

More than 2,000 people, including regulars and staff at the Harrier, signed a petition to keep the pub.

Protesters behind the Save the Harrier campaign argued that the pub was thriving, that it was the only pub left outside the village centre, that elderly people relied on it and that there was no need for more elderly persons' housing.

Despite the protests, McCarthy and Stone’s new development, in Hamble Lane – 26 retirement flats for over 60s – should welcome its first residents next spring.

The firm, which also released a new image of how it should look when finished, says there has already been interest from local elderly residents keen to downsize.

It is pledging support to appropriate neighbourhood projects, charities and one off events in Hamble, as part of what it said was its ongoing commitment to the area.

The new development will have its own house manager, a security entrance system and 24-hour emergency call points.

McCarthy and Stone say the plans mean an investment of £5m in the local economy. Pub owner Enterprise Inns said the pub did not bring in enough cash.

Eastleigh Borough Councillors said they had little choice but to accept the developer’s bid as even if they had turned it down, the site would be turned into a convenience store without needing planning consent.

Groups or organisations can email donation requests to mccarthyandstone@mccann.com.