CONTROVERSIAL plans have been resubmitted for shops and flats on an Andover housing development after the original application was refused in October.

Developers Daytona and Taylor Wimpey have lodged a proposal to develop the Northern Local Centre Site at Augusta Park into a multi-purpose building comprising four commercial units and 20 affordable flats.

The site is located opposite Endeavour Primary School.

Council officials refused an application for a similar scheme last year following numerous objections by residents who were unhappy with the flat-roofed design, parking and the potential for the flats to become untenable, becoming a focus for antisocial behaviour and vandalism.

Although the developers have lodged an appeal to the planning inspectorate against refusal, they have also resubmitted their application.

The new design comprises sloped, slate-effect roofs with dormer windows on the second floor, and parking and access issues have been addressed.

Concerns still remain, however, as the 20 affordable flats proposed breach the council’s clustering policy.

Barley Road resident Ann Truss said: “Test Valley Borough Council is being offered a downmarket development to afford the developer a quick source of substantial profit at the expense of the council, council taxpayers and the future of the Augusta Park community.”

When the original plans for 2,500 properties at Augusta Park were passed, development of the Northern Local Centre Site was for the purpose of providing employment opportunities and amenities for residents.

Alamein councillor, Phil North said: “The new proposal is more in keeping with beautiful Augusta Park including a pitched roof, better parking and an enhanced pedestrian access to the school. I still have some concerns about the tenure of some of the housing above the shops as it seems to contravene the council's clustering policy. I want to see this facility built and open for the residents of Augusta Park to use, but we must get it right.”

Defending the application, a Taylor Wimpey spokesman said: “The internal layouts and floor plans are essentially the same, with the main changes being to the external design made in response to comments received from the first application.

“The application promises to add a substantial economic boost to the area. Morrisons has signed on to take one of the commercial outlets, while the development will deliver jobs and affordable housing for local people.”

Planning application 15/00729 is available to view on TVBC’s website.

Residents have the chance to make comments until 29 April.