CONCERNS have been raised over a proposal to build up to 26 new homes on the site of a former coastguard training centre in Christchurch.

Fifty letters of objection have been submitted to Christchurch council over the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s centre at Steamer Point, Friars Cliff.

But officers have recommended the outline plans for approval, in spite of the residents’ concerns.

A planning meeting on Thursday will decide if the scheme gets the go-ahead.

The concerns oppose the development on the grounds of overdevelopment, loss of character, loss of protected trees and inadequacy of parking.

Issues focusing on the impact of cliff stability and impact on highway safety were also raised.

Earlier this year, members of the planning committee refused a scheme for up to 35 homes on the site.

Ward councillor Claire Bath said during the previous planning meeting that she may have a different opinion if fewer homes were suggested.

At the previous meeting in April, members of the planning committee heard from Friars Cliff Action Committee, who also expressed concerns about the proposed number of homes.

A report to the planning committee on the scheme said the MCA would relocate to a purpose-built facility in Hampshire.

“The current training centre at Steamer Point is spatially restricted and has no capacity for expansion in terms of the provision of new facilities,” it said.

“The existing training centre buildings are outdated and of restricted size, and the disposal of the site would, it is advised, help to fund the new facility which will provide modern and efficient facilities.”

In response to the concerns, the report said the principle of homes on the site is “acceptable”.

It said the proposals overcome the previous reasons for refusal over the impact on the character of the area. The meeting will take place at 6pm on Thursday, December 11 at the Civic Offices in Christchurch.