A DECISION is due for a controversial housing development in Winchester.
Orchard Homes want replace the house at Wray How, 30 Downside Road in Teg Down, with three two-storey houses.
A total of 50 objections have been received ahead of Winchester City Council's planning committee on Wednesday, July 17.
Cllr Kelsie Learney, who represents the St Barnabas ward, opposes the scheme. She said: “I am objecting to this planning application as a local ward member. Downside Road is very well used by pedestrians travelling between local services and the upper part of Teg Down, with very low levels of traffic providing a safe and attractive walking route.
“The developer failed to engage with local people prior to application. In discussions with local residents, it is clear that the opportunity has been missed to bring forward a development which would fit in to and be acceptable to the neighbourhood.”
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Fellow objector Tony Ashford, of Downside Road, said: “The density is still nearly twice that of the last new development approved.
“The height of the properties, given the nature of the sloping site, is still such that it will dominate nearby properties.
“It is proposed that delivery vehicles reverse into the development given the site plan this is both impractical and unrealistic. Reversing out directly onto the road creates an obvious safety issue.
“The density and design of the site needs to be addressed to prevent a serious accident.”
Five neutral comments were also received.
City council planning officers have recommended permission. The officers' report said: “The proposed development would (in its amended form) reflect the scale and pattern of development in the area and would not give rise to adverse impacts upon local amenity, highway safety, ecology or trees and it is therefore recommended that planning permission should be granted.”
For more details about the plans online, search 23/01562/FUL on Winchester City Council's planning portal.
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