A CONTROVERSIAL scheme to build 90 homes on the north ern fringes of Winchester has been thrown out by planners.

The refusal of Redrow Homes’ plans to develop a field off Worthy Road in Abbotts Barton, came just hours after Winchester City Council paved the way for building on nearby Barton Farm.

The homebuilder wants to put the mixture of houses and flats behind Francis Gardens, arguing the scheme is of “considerable quality”.

But the city council’s planning committee backed officers’ advice to refuse the application. The meeting at the Guildhall last Thursday heard that building on the field — already earmarked as a reserve site — could not be justified.

“The current position is very clear,” said Dave Dimon, planning officer.

“We have a five-year land supply and based on current calculations it’s not necessary to release the land at this time.”

Before unanimously refusing the scheme, councillors discussed the impact of development on existing residents in Francis Gardens.

Cllr Ian Tait said: “I was surprised on a Saturday there’s considerable problems with parking and this development is only going to make things worse, not better.”