A CONTROVERSIAL housing scheme has finally been approved after the initial decision was delayed by councillors.

The scheme, in Oliver’s Battery, Winchester, was due to be decided at last month’s city council planning committee, but, following a site visit by councillors last week, has now been approved.

It comes amid concerns over children’s safety on nearby pavements and fears for the impact of traffic in the area.

The committee heard in August that the plans, recommended for approval by planning officers, would see 74 Oliver’s Battery Road North demolished, with six homes and 14 parking spaces built in its place.

It would consist of two five-bedroom houses, one four-bed, two three-bed and one two-bed houses on a prominent site next to Badger Farm Road.

There would also be a new access road created.

However, that sparked concerns from residents and councillors that schoolchildren using the route would be put at increased risk by emerging cars.

Cllr Brian Laming said: “This is a very busy road, it is one huge problem if you add additional homes.

“I’m extremely concerned with this. I’m also concerned that the parking arrangements on this site are not sufficient.”

These concerns were shared by the city councillor for St Luke, Derek Green, who said: “It may be possible to park 14 cars on site, but we feel this is not enough,” adding it could result on drivers parking on the road.

However, Winchester City Council development control engineer Ian Elvin defended that plans, saying: “The parking proposed complies with Winchester City Council parking standards.”

He added that the proposed scheme would only result in a “modest” traffic increase and the road would be able to cope.

Addressing safety concerns, Mr Elvin said: “What you must remember is any traffic emerging will be doing so at a slow speed.

“There’s an onus on the parents of the children to consider the safety of children.”

Architect Stephen Sherlock, who believed the scheme would have a “very positive impact” on the area, added: “This application is the result of many, many months of consulting with your planning department.

“I’m obviously aware of some of the neighbours’ concerns... I believe their fears are unfounded.”

The proposal received 46 letters of objection, citing overdevelopment, an increase in traffic, safety of access and being out of character on a street that is mainly large single detached houses.

There are fears that Oliver’s Battery Road North could go the way of Chilbolton Avenue which has seen much infill development this century.