RESIDENTS concerned about plans for a new block of flats at a car wash site have hit out - with one person accusing the council of 'trying to turn Christchurch into a concrete jungle'.
The proposal for 34 flats along one of Christchurch's main roads, has already attracted dozens of objections from concerned neighbours.
The scheme for the A and G car wash site at Barrack Road is proposing a mixture of one and two-bedroom flats in a three-storey building.
Read more: Second housing plans for Barrack Road site in Christchurch
On the corner, the building would be four storeys.
Developers, Rother Properties Ltd, say the new building would "respect" neighbouring properties.
The site will offer no parking, in line with BCP Council's parking standards. Instead there will be a bike store, with access to public transport highlighted within the application.
A statement submitted as part of the proposal said: "The site is ideally located for additional housing stock, being close to the town centre which provides a range of services, shopping needs and sustainable transport.
Read more: Flats plan for site in Barrack Road, Christchurch, approved
"The proposed mix of unit sizes will be a positive addition to this sustainable location and will significantly contribute to the borough’s housing needs.
"Great care has been taken to create a sensitively designed proposal which works to introduce landscaping and planting as much as possible to substantially enhance the amenity value on site."
But more than 33 objections have so far been submitted.
Concerns are based on the loss of jobs from an existing and "valued business", lack of parking spaces which could lead to parking congestion in nearby streets.
Residents are also concerned about the existing congestion on Barrack Road and the pressure on local resources including GP surgeries.
One person said: "Not only does this remove jobs but yet another eyesore to the area. We do not need more abominations being built."
One neighbour said: "Another development of too many flats without sufficient parking, on an extremely busy road that will cause an increase in parking issues and volume of traffic to the area.
"BCP won't be happy until everywhere in Christchurch is just a concrete jungle without sufficient facilities for the influx of people and their cars."
However, one resident said: "Whilst I agree with other commenters about the lack of car parking provision, the proposal removes a rather ugly ex-petrol station with an higher quality building. The smallness of the apartments should appeal to first-time occupiers, and so is of significant benefit to this set of potential occupiers."
Comments are open on the application until May 1.
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