IT is the cafe at a Winchester beauty spot which got through the planning process without an objection.

But now plans for the Handlebar Cafe at the Viaduct Way between Garnier Road and St Catherine’s Hill have raised eyebrows on social media.

People have taken to Facebook to complain about the cafe, after seeing a sign letting people know that the cafe is coming, months after it was approved by planning chiefs at the South Downs National Park Authority.

The project has been created by youngsters to give visitors a place to enjoy a coffee before or after enjoying one of Winchester’s most scenic routes.

The cafe will be run by Bespoke Biking, which will provide bike repairs, riding events as well as a cafe where people can enjoy a coffee while overlooking one of Winchester’s more scenic areas.

Hampshire Chronicle:

An artist impression of how it will look (above)

One person simply said "Bad" when stating their opinion on the cafe, another said: "I run there all the time and can't see myself stopping for a mid run cappuccino. "

Another said: "St Catherine's Hill is a place of outstanding natural beauty and a wildlife conservation area. It does not need to be littered with the inevitable rubbish that this will bring."

However just as many people who criticised the cafe, came out and wrote in support of it.

One person wrote: "What a fantastic idea!!!! Ive been keeping an eye on this project for the past year or so and I'm so excited that the wheel is finally in motion!

"Personally I think it's a wonderful idea, and well done to the young people for their innovative plan. It may even encourage more cyclists, walkers and joggers to the area, knowing they can get some refreshment along the way."

Mark Drury from the SPUD Group said: "We held consultations, we left leaflets, held exhibitions it has been on the Winchester City Council minutes, there has been stories about this in the Chronicle and the Daily Echo, this should not surprise anybody.

"We would have not got planning permission if we created something that was seen as inappropriate for the site."

Mr Drury said that the building will be made of clad and timber, there will also be low level lighting and said they are working closely with architects and planners to ensure the impact of the building is as minimal as possible.

Mr Drury reiterated to the Chronicle that the cafe is not a commercial venture and added: "This is to create a community where there's not anything, it is not a commercial business it is run as a community interest company and owned by a charity."