Area Overview for Pennington Ward

Area Information

Living in Pennington Ward offers a quiet, semi-rural existence on the edge of the New Forest National Park. This ward forms part of the civil parish of Lymington and Pennington, sitting within the New Forest district of Hampshire. It covers an area of 9.6 square kilometres and hosts a population of 1,435 people. The community is defined by its proximity to the Solent sea wall at Lower Pennington and its northern boundary along Sway Road. You will find yourself between the Avon Water and Hordle ward to the west, merging into Lymington and Buckland to the east. The landscape includes Pennington Common, a large open area designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. This location serves as a dormitory settlement for commuters heading to Lymington, Southampton, and Bournemouth. Daily life here blends the openness of the New Forest with the practical connectivity of established road links. The ward's approximate centre lies at 50.75°N, 1.56°W, positioning it strategically within South East England. You enjoy immediate access to local landmarks such as St Mark's Church and St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery. This setting provides a distinct choice for those seeking a peaceful home while remaining close to significant outdoor activities and nearby towns. >

Area Type
District Borough Unitary Ward
Area Size
9.6 km²
Population
1435
Population Density
149 people/km²

Demographics

The community in Pennington Ward is characterised by an older age profile. The median age across the ward is 70 years. This figure indicates a significant portion of the population is senior citizens. You should anticipate a quieter, established neighbourhood rather than a bustling hub for young families. Home ownership is deeply ingrained in the local fabric, with 68% of residents owning their homes outright. This high rate of ownership suggests stability and a settled community where families have roots. Household composition data indicates a total count that aligns with the older demographic findings, though specific breakdowns by family size are not provided in the current dataset. Accommodation type statistics are also recorded as totals, reflecting the established nature of the housing stock. The ward's age profile of 70 years typically implies a lower need for younger-specific amenities compared to areas with higher youth populations. Instead, services and social structures likely cater to an older demographic. The low private rental market, suggested by the high ownership rate, means most residents are long-term occupants. This creates a stable environment where community arrangements are well-established over decades. You will find a sense of continuity in the way people interact within this specific ward. >

Household Size

total
most common

Accommodation Type

total
most common

Tenure

68
majority

Ethnic Group

total
most common

Religion

total
most common

Household Composition

total
most common

Age

70
median
Age: Total
most common

Household Deprivation

N/A
with no deprivation

NS-SEC

35
in Lower managerial occupations

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Planning

Planning Constraints

  • Flood Risk
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  • Ramsar Wetland Sites
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  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
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  • Protected Nature Reserve
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  • Protected Woodland
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  • Crime Risk
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Open Planning map

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age profile of Pennington Ward residents?
The median age in Pennington Ward is 70 years. This indicates a predominantly older community compared to the national average. Home ownership stands at 68%, reflecting a settled population where most residents have lived in the area for a significant period. This demographic profile suggests a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere suited to retirement or established families rather than young professionals.
How is the transport network for getting around Pennington Ward?
Residents benefit from good road links and reasonable rail access. The nearest railway station, Lymington Town, is 2 km away, with services to Sway, Brockenhurst, and New Milton. Public bus services are limited, meaning reliance on private vehicles is common. Fixed broadband connectivity scores 64 out of 100, which is considered fair and suitable for standard online tasks but may struggle with heavy use.
Is Pennington Ward a safe place to live?
Yes. The crime risk assessment assigns a safety score of 75 out of 100, indicating a low crime risk with below-average rates. However, environmental risks require consideration. There is a medium flood risk, and the area contains protected Ramsar wetland sites and nature reserves, which classifies the land as a planning constraint for new development projects.
How large is Pennington Ward and where is it located?
Pennington Ward covers an area of 9.6 square kilometres and has a population of 1,435. It is part of the civil parish of Lymington and Pennington within the New Forest district of Hampshire. The southern boundary reaches the Solent sea wall in Lower Pennington, while the north extends to Sway Road.

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