MORE than 100 people have objected to a flats development spearheaded by Richard Carr.

The businessman's scheme for a block of 50 flats at The Green in Branksome Hill Road, Bournemouth, followed directly on the heels of a previous unsuccessful bid for a block of 40 flats, which was refused by town planning officers.

The proposal will see the demolition of five family homes at the site.

That proposal saw nearly 150 objections submitted, backed by ward councillors Andrew Morgan and Philip Broadhead.

Cllr Morgan has called for the new scheme to be discussed at the planning board should it be recommended for approval by officers.

In his submission he said it was "something of a surprise" that applicant Fortitudo Ltd "now considers it appropriate to apply for permission to build 50 flats in this prominent Conservation Area location".

He said: "Such a large block of flats will not sit at all comfortably at this location.

"Earlier comparisons with an out of place cruise ship drew attention to a design that was wholly inappropriate for the area.

"What has emerged now is vast and seems to resemble the wing of a hospital or large office complex."

He said the bid to increase the number of flats showed "no regard at all for the legitimate concerns expressed by so many residents".

Mr Carr has told the Daily Echo that there is a "need" for flats of the type proposed in the area, and that if the latest application is refused there will be an appeal.

He said the scheme had been adapted to satisfy all the concerns raised by officers against its predecessor, and the additional flats and storey would not add to the height of the proposed block due to the reduction in the floor to ceiling height of the flats.

National heritage body Historic England has said it has "concerns" over the proposal, although it has no objection to the demolition of the existing homes, identified by the council's conservation appraisal as being a negative influence on the area.

The scheme is still being considered by officers.