PLANS for homes in Stanmore were approved despite objections over lack of parking.

Michael Brentnall applied to demolish at 1 and 3 Walpole Road, before the erection of two one-bedroom flats, three two-bedroom houses and one three-bedroom house.

The application was reported to committee due to 14 objections.

Planning officer Liz Marsden said several objections concerned with the impact on parking for existing houses, as the property would have no vehicle access.

However, she clarified that on-road parking spaces were available around the property at various times of day.

Although some criticisms had been received that report photos of empty spaces were taken during the day when people were at work, she proceeded to show the committee additional photos taken at 7pm with free spots.

Cllr Eleanor Bell asked if it would be possible to have some on-site parking, but Ms Marsden responded that the space for additional parking is now open green space, which the applicants would like to retain.

Agent Richard Waite said the property had been a family home for a number of years, but due to its non-conventional structure, it was not easily mortgageable.

He added that the applicant could have let the property out to students but that this would be unpopular in Stanmore, and that knocking it down and re-building it was the best option.

Cllr Ian Tait said: “In the top end of Stanmore, there is adequate parking. I will support the officer’s recommendations.”

The application was approved by the committee.