Former animal testing site near Bishop's Waltham will be redeveloped into homes for the elderly

Winchester planners granted permission for Wickham Laboratories to be demolished and replaced by 31 retirement flats and communal buildings.

Speaking for developers McCarthy & Stone at a planning committee meeting on June 20, Matthew Shellum said: “Without question the existing collection of buildings are of a temporary nature and detract from the conservation area. We are committed to real positive changes.”

Some residents objected to the proposals, arguing the development would be overbearing on nearby houses.

Councillors were also concerned about the lack of safe crossing over Winchester Road, where residents may go to visit the doctor.

Cllr Mike Read said: “With elderly people you are going to have a much slower passage across a busy road, and a fast road. We have to consider whether an ambulance will be up there regularly, picking up the pieces.”

But Mr Shellum said the developers had taken these concerns to the county council after consulting with the community.

The committee unanimously approved the plans.

Cllr Therese Evans said: “There's no doubt this is welcome in the village. This is a definite improvement to what's there already.”

The approval is subject to developers contributions of £295,000 towards affordable housing and £5,200 for open spaces.