A GRADE II listed building in the “historic core of Winchester” will be extended and modified, despite strong objections from neighbours.

At a planning meeting, an application was heard from Jonathan and Janette Munro Ford, who plan to add a single and two-story extension to their home – sparking fierce criticism from Peter Matthews, who lives in the adjacent house on Canon Street.

Much of the debate centred on plans received for amended guttering, with objector Mr Matthews disputing the accuracy of plans submitted and the effect on his property.

Mr Matthews made an impassioned plea before the committee at the Guildhall and said the works would cause him considerable disruption.

“There’s no way you can fit that gutter without taking our tiles off our roof and damaging our property,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the applicants, Simon Goddard, a specialist in modifications to period buildings, told the committee he had taken considerable time to research the history of the area, including consulting Professor Martin Biddle’s gazetteer of the area.

Planning officers were satisfied with the accuracy of the plans and councillors voted unanimously to allow the extension.

Cllr Barry Lipscomb said: “I think we all care for the historic core of Winchester and this kind of design will always raise concerns among residents. I’m voting to allow it because I think it’s the right thing to do but I do not want anyone thinking we do so in a cavalier fashion – very far from it.”