A FORMER coastguard site in Christchurch has been put on the market - with planning permission for 26 new homes.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency site at Steamer Point will be sold by informal tender through MCA's agent, Hartnell Taylor Cook LLP.

In August, plans to build up to 26 new homes on the site, were approved on appeal.

They had been refused by Christchurch council twice before, following concerns from residents.

Andrew Batchelor, of Hartnell Taylor Cook, said: “This has to be one of the most attractive residential development opportunities located on this stretch of the southern coast to come to the market for a number of years.

"Its position on the coast, surrounded by the nature reserve and golf course, with stunning direct views out to the channel, makes it exceptional and we anticipate substantial interest.”

More than 50 letters of objection were submitted to Christchurch council over the revised plans.

Officers had recommended the scheme for approval, but this was overturned by members of the committee when they discussed the application last December.

Residents concerns centred on 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.

Speaking after the appeal was published, ward councillor Claire Bath, said: "Our concerns were to do with the density of the housing reflecting what the local area housing looks like now.

"What I wanted was something that was very similar to the lower density and quality of the housing which already exists there.

"That's what the residents wanted as well.

"I hope a developer will work closely with local residents to make sure their application works with what is already there."

Bids have to be submitted by Friday, November 27.