PLANNERS are set to decide today on controversial proposals to demolish a house and replace it with five new homes in Winchester.

The bid has drawn fierce criticism from angry neighbours who say the new homes in Stoney Lane, Weeke, would cause huge amounts of damage to their lives.

They argue there would be intrusions into their privacy, loss of light and green space, and an increase in traffic in the area.

So far, more than 50 objections have been lodged against the planning application, including criticisms from Winchester city councillors, which will be discussed by members of Winchester City Council’s planning committee this today.

Resident Loui Harmer, who lives in a neighbouring home, said: “The huge loss of green spaces in one fell swoop would be devastating. The increase in traffic onto a busy road – which will become even busier once the Barton Farm through-road completes – will cause major long-term difficulties for a key feeder road into Winchester.

“Stoney Lane is becoming a hot spot for private development opportunities and many of us are really concerned about how it impacts those of us who actually live here.”

The proposal have been recommended for approval by council officers. The councillors on the committee do not have to follow their officers’ advice