PLANS to redevelop Winchester’s old fire station have gone up in smoke, but fresh proposals are expected.

A scheme by Bargate Homes for the site in North Walls was due to come before planners on Thursday (March 8).

However, Winchester City Council’s planning committee heard that the firm had withdrawn its scheme.

The developer was hoping to build 17 two-bedroom flats and 30 one-bedroom flats, making 47 in all.

Objections were made by the City of Winchester Trust along with 20 residents.

Concerns included the buildings being too large at four-storeys high, and the site being overdeveloped.

Parking and traffic problems were also raised along with overlooking of nearby homes.

Council officers were also unimpressed, and had already advised councillors to throw out the scheme.

After the meeting, Bargate Homes managing director Angus Cook said they decided to pull the plan, given the opposition.

He said: “We’re looking at the officers’ comments and we’re looking at how we can work together with the council on this scheme.”

He added that the firm, which is based in Fair Oak, would seek talks with the authority before trying again.

Mr Cook added that they hoped to submit another plan in a couple of months, depending on the progress of the talks.

The site has been empty since Winchester’s new fire station opened in Easton Lane, Winnall, 12 months ago.