PLANS to convert former farm buildings into a business space look set to be approved, despite fears the increased traffic will put residents at risk.

The proposals for North Winchester Farm near Kings Worthy are due to go before Winchester City Council’s planning committee today.

If approved, it would see the various buildings converted into 4,200sqm of commercial floorspace, along with parking and access off Stoke Charity Road.

However, concerns have been raised that the new use will result in more traffic driving through the heart of Kings Worthy.

A spokesman for the parish council, which objected to the proposals, said: “The site is situated in a mainly green belt area and any development of this style would be detrimental to Kings Worthy.

“No indication is shown as to the size of the vehicles using the site or the frequency of traffic movements. There are no trunk roads close to the site; Stoke Charity Road and Lovedon Lane are not appropriate for increased volumes of traffic.

“If drivers start finding that the Lovedon Lane A33 junction is inappropriate, then [they] will start using Springvale Road – the increased traffic through the heart of the village will result in an increased risk to children walking to school via Springvale Road.”

and Nations Hill.

“It could also mean an increase in traffic using Church Lane which is not wide enough in places for large vehicles to pass. Hampshire County Council has erected blue signs stating the road is unsuitable for HGVs, but HGV drivers regularly ignore this.”

There were also concerns raised about increased noise and light pollution as a result of the development.