THE owner of Woolmer Gate on the Longmoor Road, Liphook, made a presentation at a recent parish council planning meeting, about his proposal to develop the land around his home. Terence Bonnar's plans, which have not yet been formally submitted, include six new dwellings, which will replace the existing two four-bedroom detached houses – one of them being the former home of author Flora Thompson. Flora Thompson lived at two addresses in Liphook, one on the London Road – which has a commemorative plaque – and the property at Woolmer Gate. Mr Bonnar plans to bequeath the proposed dwellings to his six children, thereby securing their future, although two of the proposed dwellings would be made available to interested parties. He explained to Bramshott and Liphook Parish Council that the proposed contemporary development was of the highest standard and quality and sympathetic to the design of adjacent properties, using sustainable materials which are environmentally friendly. Mr Bonnar said that he would follow the example of the "Follow the Sun" project in Whitehill which shows how small developments can lead the way in this area. The "Sunergy" system used in this project, only the second of its type in the world, provides electricity from the roof which is one large solar panel. Although still at an early stage Mr Bonnar has instructed local architects Format Milton of Alton to design the project, putting these principles at the heart of the scheme. Stephen Lampard of Format Milton explained, "climate change is a challenge all developers must take to heart. It is vital we use good design, modern technology and sustainable materials to minimise any environmental impact". He continued , "The first principle is to conserve energy through high insulation followed by low energy heat sources such as ground source systems, and the harvesting and filtering of rain water for 'grey' applications such as laundry and toilet cisterns. "This will provide homes that are better suited to life in the 21st century", he said. Recent flooding across the country has heightened awareness of the effects of climate change and global warming and Mr Bonnar plans to translate this into action. The proposed development incorporates a courtyard design, not overlooking any neighbouring properties, and does not interfere with any roots systems, thereby leaving present foliage and trees undisturbed. The proposed design is contemporary and open spaced and according to Mr Bonnar, perhaps too contemporary for Hampshire tastes. He added that the only part of historical interest in Flora Thompson's house, which would be redeveloped, is the original staircase. Mr Bonnar has said that he does not intend to keep the staircase. Flora Thompson lived in in Grayshott between 1899 and 1900 and in Liphook between 1922–1928. Her most famous book, Lark Rise was first published in 1939, followed by Over to Candleford and Candleford Green; and issued as a trilogy in 1945, Lark Rise to Candleford. She also wrote a Guide to Liphook, Bramshott and Neigbourhood in 1925. This year marks the 60th anniversary of Flora Thompson's death. All proposed development plans of the site can be viewed on a free website http://www.thebonnars.com">www.thebonnars.com