A NEW terrace of houses has been approved to replace two modern block of flats in Winchester.

City councillors this afternoon approved Drew Smith builders’ scheme for three new houses on the site off Lansdowne Avenue.

Eleven neighbours objected saying the new contemporary-style building was too high and used materials unsuitable for the conservation area, including wood cladding and white render.

Neighbours spoke against the proposal, designed by Winchester-based Radley House Partnership.

Alison Lilystone, of St Cross Road, said: “This will have a huge negative impact on the quality of life of my family. It will be over-bearing and dominate my garden.”

James Treseder-Griffin, of St Cross Road, added: “What is proposed is out of keeping with the historic houses in this vicinity. This is an opportunity to build a legacy more suitable to the area and not repeat mistakes of the past.”

Cllr Robert Johnston said it was a gloomy area with overbearing trees and the white render would "cheer it up."

Cllr Therese Evans said: “I don’t like it (the design) but I can’t find a planning reason to refuse it.”

Cllr Barry Lipscomb said: “I am tempted to say no but one sometimes have to have faith in our designers. Winchester is blessed with very high-quality architects and builders. They are not known for producing ugly buildings that people don’t like to live in.”

The committee unanimously accepted their officers’ recommendation to approve the plans.