DOZENs of residents gathered in Winchester recently to discuss a controversial housing development.

The meeting, chaired by Winchester and Chandler’s Ford MP Steve Brine, came as planning chiefs prepare to consider an application for 200 new homes at Pitt Manor.

Winchester MP Steve Brine recently chaired a big meeting in the city to consider the controversial Pitt Manor development as councillors prepare to consider the full planning application.

The scheme, which will include a new park-and-ride site just off Romsey Road, was given outline permission on appeal in 2012 after fierce campaigning. Winchester City Council subsequently rejectd the plans.

Mr Brine brought invited planning specialists Turley Associates, developer Orchard Homes, and St Peter’s School, as well as officers from Winchester City and Hampshire County Council.

Many residents remain unhappy at changes to the Stanmore Lane and Romsey Road junction. The safety of pupils getting in and out of St Peter’s School also remains a concern, as do drainage and the management of the park-and-ride. Pedestrian and cycle access to the new development was also discussed and those attending saw a number of drawings of what the new homes will look like.

Speakign after the meeting on February 13, Mr Brine said: “It is no secret many of us didn’t want this area developed but now the decision has been made we have to make the best of it and ensure we mitigate the negative effects as much as possible and glean as much benefit as we can for the local community from the positives.”

The full planning application will be heard by Winchester City Council’s planning committee on Thursday (March 6).