PLANS to build six houses in a rural area of Christchurch have been approved despite nearby residents speaking out against the scheme.

The proposals for land adjacent to Tucks Fold on Preston Lane, Burton were supported by members of Christchurch Borough Council's planning committee.

However, councillors admitted they could understand the issues the development would cause neighbours.

Questions were raised at the meeting by members of the public, who claimed the site was greenbelt land, however this was not the case according to planning officers.

Concerns outlined by residents in objection included overlooking other properties, overdevelopment for the area, potential flood risks, road access issues and increased traffic.

Speaking in opposition to the scheme, Nick Woodford, who was one of the 35 residents to submit letters against the proposals, said: "The actual proposed development will have a massive issue in the character appearance of the area, which is adjoining the conservation area and undeveloped countryside.

"The development would appear to be cramped and will not be in keeping with the present open surroundings."

Applicant Hamish MacBeth, of Cawdor Construction Developments Ltd, said: "Our application proposes traditional building styles which draw their influence from the older cottages and houses in the historic core of Burton.

"The scheme pays close attention to those properties on the western boundary as we've tried very carefully to avoid overlooking."

A previous development for ten houses and a new access road was refused last March. The subsequent smaller scheme looked to address the issues,which led to this refusal through discussions with planning officers.

The motion to approve the scheme passed with seven votes in favour and one abstention.

Cllr Claire Bath said: "I absolutely empathise with the residents who live there currently because it will change their outlook dramatically, but sadly that is not a planning consideration as long as their interests are protected under the planning laws we have.

"The look and feel of the development of an old farmhouse which has been converted with outbuildings partly mitigates removing this open aspect of our countryside."