APPROVED plans for three blocks of flats alongside a busy route in Christchurch are progressing.

A legal agreement has been reached over the proposed development for 215-225 Barrack Road.

Calendula Assets Ltd, which trades under the name of DWP Housing Partnership, had an application approved for the site in November 2021.

It plans to demolish the existing buildings at the site, consisting of homes and the Dragon Palace restaurant, to make space for 38 flats across three new blocks.

The approval came despite 35 objections and opposition from Christchurch Town Council.

Concerns raised over the scheme included ‘insufficient parking’ which could lead to cars parking on surrounding roads, increased traffic congestion in the area, and the possibility of highway safety issues, with children using the route to walk to school.

It is not yet known when the works at the site will begin.