CITY councillors have voted unanimously to approve plans which will see the number of affordable city homes increased.

The Romsey Road development, on the site of the former Hampshire Constabulary HQ, has had a troubled development so far, with the work stalling several times since planning was first approved in 2016.

The new plans will now see the number of affordable one and two-bed flats increase at the expense of larger two and three-bed dwellings.

Developer Berkeley Homes said the change was due to a shift in market conditions which meant that the larger three-bedroom apartments were no longer desirable. Throughout the development there will now be an extra 36 units.

As a result, more affordable housing will be included to meet council requirements.

A report, which went before Winchester City Council’s planning committee, says the overall footprint of the site remains mostly unchanged, except for one of the affordable housing blocks, which will be extended slightly to meet minimum size requirements.

At the meeting, Cllr Jane Rutter questioned whether the increase in one-bedroom homes could lead to them being rented to students.

Planning officer Jill Lee said that although there was nothing to stop someone purchasing a flat for student use, the price of the homes coupled with proposed onsite management would dissuade most.

Ward councillor Liz Hutchison said she had grave concerns about the “inadequate” level of parking, as well as the additional strain on access, movement and congestion in the area.

“These extra homes will just make the situation worse,” she said.

“Romsey Road is one of the most appalling places in Winchester for pedestrians, if not the entire country.

“It’s a fantastic walking location, yet no provision has been made... There are either no pavements or very thin pavements and there is no crossing. Putting homes on here without addressing the issue is irresponsible.”

Cllr Kim Gottlieb said that he was sympathetic to the points raised, but was not sure what could be done.

Winchester highways engineer Ian Elvin added that the responsibility for improvements to Romsey Road lay with Hampshire County Council and that although a contribution will be made towards improving infrastructure, what measures are put in place, if any, would be up to them.