THE fight for safer parking continues after residents lost a battle to prevent an infill scheme of six new family homes on open space at Bearwood.

There were 45 objectors to the proposal, however Poole’s planning committee approved the Poole Housing Partnership scheme on land at the rear of 67 to 113 King John Avenue.

The site is a former garage courtyard and an area of open space between terraces of houses on two cul-de-sacs. The plans are for a pair of semi-detached houses at the west end and a terrace of four houses right up against the garden fences of homes.

Irate residents raised a range of objections to the scheme which they say is overdevelopment, will put more pressure on already busy roads and scarce parking spaces, will impede access for emergency vehicles and lose a much used open space where children could safely play.

Resident Sarah Harley said: “We all understand the need for affordable housing but feel extremely let down by our local council by using this space to cram six more houses into an already busy and cramped area thus destroying our little community meeting space where we chat, say hello, exercise our dogs and let our children play and grow up.”

John McKay, who has lived in the avenue since 1988, said: “It has changed from a lot of young couples to being people who have children. There are more visitors and more parking is required.”

Robert Broadbank, who has four sons, two with disabilities, raised concerns about the lack of disabled parking spaces.

Mum of six, Kara Guppy, said they would lose all the roadside parking in front of the new houses as well as the garage spaces.

Mayor to hold surgery CLLR Philip Eades, planning committee chairman, said: “Having listened to comments of support and objection to this application, the planning committee voted in favour to approve it.

“Affordable housing is a priority for the council and it is important we support schemes being put forward, while balancing the needs of the community. We will be working with residents to address their concerns and look forward to this development progressing.”

Ward councillor David Brown said: “There are a lot of upset and disappointed residents.”

He is holding a surgery meeting today, and will be speaking to PHP and the council to try and minimise the impact of the development.

Concerns about parking and anti-social behaviour at the nearby play area would also be raised in a bid to improve the situation.

And resident Stuart Harley will be contacting the fire service to find out if they have concerns.