The council’s planning panel has unanimously rejected the lastest plans for a block of flats in Whitworth Crescent.Concerned locals queued up to speak out against developer Knightwood Homes’ re-submitted plans to build a modern block of 11 flats on the site of 74 Whitworth Crescent, which would have set a precedent for the development of four-storey buildings in the road.
But the plans, which residents had feared would flag the start of a series of ‘Costa del Itchen’-style developments, were thrown out on a “shopping list of counts” by councillors.Out of character
Spokesman for the developer Mr Robin Reay described the block as “a building of quality design.” But Cllr June Bridle said: “The design of the building is totally out of character with the surrounding area.” She added that she thought her four-year-old grand daughter could have designed a better cycle store.
Cllr Johnson said that he believed the proposed structure would “dominate and diminish” the area, reducing its character. “This is an area of family housing — of Victorian character property. The council should be looking at protecting these properties,” he said.
Links
Residents fight 'Costa del Itchen' plans - Daily Echo, June 19
See also
Denham objects to Whitworth plans
Whitworth residents form preservation group
Whitworth Crescent: concern over flats
Planning news