PLANS for a temporary compound at Winton Recreation Ground have been given the green light by councillors despite residents’ concerns.

Wessex Water will use the site for six months this autumn and winter in order to carry out much-needed flood prevention works at Trafalger Road, Alma Road and Stokewood Road.

However, those living nearby had spoken out against the plans, which will see a site office, welfare unit, two fuel storages and large storage container placed on the site, with claims they had been treated “shabbily”.

The compound will use 50 square metres of the large sports field behind the children’s play area.

During a meeting of Bournemouth Borough Council’s Planning Board last Monday, the proposals were labelled “contrived” by Winton East councillor Pat Oakley.

He said a number of other sites considered by Wessex Water – including an area of Meyrick Park – had not been properly researched.

The councillor argued that the gravel car park at the northern end of Meyrick Park’s central drive would be more suitable, adding: “The reasons why this site [has been deemed] unsuitable are at best exaggerated and at worst spurious.”

Finishing his deputation in objection at the meeting, Cllr Oakley said: “It’s a people’s park. It belongs to the people who use it. They deserve more respect than is contained in this arrogant and contrived document.”

However, he said he supports the flood alleviation scheme.

Cllr Lynda Price said the Meyrick Park site had been rejected because a bridge standing at around 12 feet high would need to be navigated by Wessex Water lorries, which reach 13 feet.

“These important works will allow flooding issues to finally be alleviated,” she said.

A drop-in session organised for residents took place last Wednesday – even though the application had already been granted.

A Wessex Water spokesperson said a number of locations were considered for the compound.

Of the eight councillors at the meeting, seven were in favour of the application, with two against.

The works are due to begin on October 27, and must be complete by April 19.