PLANS to convert former farm buildings into a business space have been narrowly approved, despite fears the increased traffic will put residents at risk.

Winchester City Council’s planning committee voted 5-3 in favour of proposals to covert the space at North Winchester Farm in Kings Worthy, with one councillor abstaining.

The plans will now see the various agricultural buildings converted into 4,200sqm of commercial floorspace, along with parking and access routes for the site, off Stoke Charity Road.

The committee heard concerns that the new use of the site will result in more traffic driving through the heart of Kings Worthy, including HGVs.

A spokesman for Kings Worthy Parish Council, which objected to the proposals, said: “No indication is shown as to the size of the vehicles using the site or the frequency of traffic movements. There are no trunk roads close to the site; Stoke Charity Road and Lovedon Lane are not appropriate for increased volumes of traffic of this nature.

“If drivers start finding that the Lovedon Lane A33 junction is inappropriate, then [they] will start using Springvale Road – the increased traffic through the heart of the village will result in an increased risk to children walking to school via Springvale Road and Nations Hill.

“It could also mean an increase in traffic using Church Lane which is not wide enough in places for large vehicles to pass. Hampshire County Council has erected blue signs stating the road is unsuitable for HGVs, but HGV drivers regularly ignore this.”

There were also concerns raised about a late change to the proposal which will see the site at North Winchester Farm in operation until 11pm, and the impact that would have on residents.

However, Cllr Ian Tait, who voted in favour of the application, said: “We live in a 24/7 hour world. While we might have some reservations, I think it’s a very good application.”

Cllr Richard Izard added: “I’m concerned about the change of hours but not to the extend of rejecting this application.”