A REPLACEMENT five-bedroom house in Oliver's Battery has been approved by planners, despite 23 objections.

Neighbours criticised the proposal, saying it was overdevelopment and out of character for Oliver's Battery Road South.

Despite the concerns, the plans were approved by Winchester City Council's planning committee on Wednesday June 14. 

The proposal was a reapplication of a scheme last year to extend the existing bungalow.

The planning officer's report said: “The new scheme is substantially the same as the approved scheme except that it is now a complete rebuild as the original bungalow was demolished rather than extended, therefore requiring a new application.”

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Belinda Wasylciw, of Oliver's Battery Road South, and Susan Summers, of Compton Way, spoke in objection. They said: “The two large rear windows overlook into neighbouring homes. It will invade our personal privacy. 

“It has a feel of want over need and has completely changed the street scene. It has brought many residents out to object.”

Rona Blundell, from Oliver's Battery Parish Council, said: “It will have a detrimental impact due to density and bulk. It would overshadow surrounding properties. 

“The new house will cause an unnecessary impact and should be refused.”

Jan Warwick, ward councillor for Badger Farm and Oliver's Battery, said: “Local residents object to the increased height of the roof. They are concerned it will dominate the street scene and impact the enjoyment of their homes. 

“New developments should blend in seamlessly with surrounding properties.”

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Planning agent Louise Cutts said: “There is no valid reason to refuse this application. The decision to build a new house is due to advice from builders and planners because of the poor condition of the previous building. 

“There is no material difference in the plans. The new building is highly sustainable.”

Cllr Brian Laming, who represents the Badger Farm and Oliver's Battery ward, said: “This raises a lot of questions. It will clearly impact the area. It's a large building on a small plot and will dominate the houses on both sides. I'm not sure how to vote on this one.”

Cllr Frank Pearson said: “It's 90 per cent complete so it would be perverse to ask them to tear it down and re-submit.”

Committee chairman Cllr Jane Rutter said: “There is some impact but it can be mitigated by boundary treatment. I welcome the fact that it's being built to a high sustainability level. I think it will be an attractive addition to the street scene.”

The plan was permitted unanimously.