PLANNERS are to make a decision next week on a "congested" scheme to build bungalows.

The DWP Housing Partnership scheme will see three bungalows erected in a back yard behind houses in Shelbourne Road, Bournemouth, if it is approved by the town planning board.

Originally a decision was due at a meeting last month, but a delay was requested by the applicant.

The scheme has received 18 objections from residents, and an 18 signature petition against it has been submitted.

Ward councillor Cheryl Johnson called the plan "congested overdevelopment" and 'called it in' to be discussed by the board, rather than decided upon by officers.

Officers have recommended the scheme is approved.

Their report states: "In my view this proposal has several benefits.

"It removes a potential problem site where uncontrolled storage could become a nuisance in the future.

"The existing buildings are becoming dilapidated and because occupiers/owners do not live on site they appear to have little interest in maintaining the appearance.

"The proposal provides additional housing to meet housing targets.

"The type of accommodation i.e. small one bedroom bungalows is not catered for widely in the area and this will help with the range of housing types available locally for the benefit of mixed communities."

Residents have complained about overlooking, congestion of bins and vehicles and parking, as well as access for emergency vehicles.

Anthony Agazzi, of Sherriff Road, said: "Many of my earlier objections still apply despite the amendments.

"Clearly the community does not want these plans to go ahead and have many valid objections.

"This should be a key consideration for the council."

Steven Taylor,of Shelbourne Road, said: "The proximity of the bungalows to the existing houses would cause a lack of privacy for not only the existing residents but also the for the residency of the new proposed properties.

"The road is currently overcrowded and the loss of available garages and increase in residents would add to the problem."

The scheme will be discussed by the planning board at the town hall at 2.30pm on Wednesday, April 19.