A CONCERNED resident whose home neighbours the site of a proposed major housing and retail development has voiced her concerns about the loss of several long-established gardens.

Susan Suliman, who lives on Twynham Avenue, has warned the plans for the former Christchurch police station and magistrates court site could spell the end of expansive woodland in private gardens.

At present, her view of the unoccupied site off Barrack Road is screened by several rows of trees. It is understood that a significant number of these trees are subject to tree preservation orders.

However, having spoken with representatives from housing developer Aster Group, Ms Suliman fears this natural space could be lost.

A consultation meeting for the site takes place today at the Kings Arms pavilion from 11.30am until 8pm, in the first public meeting to discuss the proposals, which feature more than 100 homes, around 50 retirement flats and space for retail units.

Ms Suliman said residents around the site have already become concerned about the plans for land, which is set to take up large sections of three gardens currently attached to properties on Barrack Road.

She said: "There are a lot of policies in place to retain and protect trees, hedges and shrubs, but potentially all this could be lost here and it would have a massive impact.

"There are so many stories around at the moment both locally and nationally where trees are being taken down despite public opinion.

"This town centre is a conservation area and we need to make sure the vitality and economy of this location is maintained.

"We have the coverage of the Queen and David Attenborough saying how important it is to preserve our trees and the canopy.

"There has got to a balance between preserving the beautiful nature, preserving some character in Christchurch and of course providing houses which are needed."

In a statement released inviting residents to attend today's consultation, Lindsey Aldington, senior development manager at Aster Group, said: "This is a landmark opportunity for Christchurch and we’re keen for as many people to get involved in shaping the plans as possible.

“Community feedback can help shape our plans and we are keen to hear what local residents think. I hope many will come along to the exhibition and share their ideas with us."