A controversial £100 million town centre development slammed as a “carbuncle” by Poole residents has been redesigned.

Developers responded to a storm of more than 400 comments from residents, the planning authority and the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment and have now submitted new plans.

Neptune Consultants’ proposals for 440 homes across six apartment blocks, with a 12-storey landmark tower, in a prime site between the bridges was labelled “overdeveloped and ugly” and risked turning the harbour into a no-go area, said residents.

Poole Old Town Conservation Group and the Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England joined forces to oppose the first development.

Now Bill Constance, chairman of POTCG, is calling for more time to consider new plans for this major application.

Borough of Poole is requesting comments by July 8.

“There is significant community interest in this major regeneration development,” he said.

“They should be given the opportunity of proper consultation.

“This development will influence the shape of Poole for the future.”

The first application was lodged in July 2010 and after being given more time by the council, the developer has come back with “major improvements” to its proposals for the mixed-use waterfront site.

Amended plans for the regeneration site between the existing lifting bridge and the new Twin Sails Bridge include cafés, shops and restaurants, opening onto an extensive new public quayside promenade.

Improvements listed by planning consultancy Terence O’Rourke include the redesign of West Quay Point to create a more slender building, with a reduction in the number of apartments.

A substantial increase in employment floorspace, minor design changes to Dee Way House and Wilkin’s Way House and improved landscaping are also included.

There will be full public access to the waterside promenade and its cafés and restaurants and new pedestrian access to the town centre.

Plans also include a new home for Poole Amateur Rowing Club.

The developer hopes the plans will go to committee later in the summer.