CIVIC planners have branded a proposed major new flat scheme in Boscombe "a slum of the future" and told developers to go back to the drawing board.

The 40-flat development, at the junction of Christchurch Road and Adeline Road, was thrown out following protests from concerned ward councillors.

Planning officer Barry Carse said developers were planning to build ten affordable housing units and provide five parking spaces, adding: "We think this is a good scheme which will result in the regeneration of this site."

But Cllr Ben Prescott voiced concern over lack of on-site parking and warned that over-spill parking would affect the lives of local residents.

Cllr Phil Stanley-Watts told the planning board: "I am in favour of regeneration but this is over-development. Five parking spaces for 40 flats is ridiculous."

But Cllr Beryl Baxter supported the application. She said: "It is in a sustainable location, on a main road, with good bus links. This can only enhance the area.

"We are getting affordable housing, which we are crying out for."

Cllr Basil Ratcliffe said: "This is discriminating against low wage earners who are not supposed to have a car.

"We will condemn them to stay in their homes."

Cllr Fran Ketchley said: "We are being asked by the government to build more one and two-bedroom flats.

"There is nothing for families - it is quite frightening."

Cllr John Beesley warned that there were no planning policies to refuse this scheme while Cllr Roger West described the lack of storage space as "absolutely appalling".

Cllr David Smith said: "We are talking about slums of the future. That is what I can see here.

"This is totally unsustainable living and unfair on anyone who has to live there."

Vice-chairman Ron Whittaker said: "Bathrooms and kitchens do not have a window. We should be looking at open spaces within developments. What living conditions are we going to inflict on these families?

"This, to me, is hell."

A move to grant the application failed but a move to refuse was carried after six councillors voted in favour and two voted against.