PLANS to build apartments in one of the busiest areas of Christchurch have been given the green light.

An application by Fox Homes Limited to build a three-storey block of apartments at 55 Somerford Road has been approved.

The proposal outlines the demolition of an existing property to make space for nine apartments, each with two bedrooms, as well as bin and bike stores, and visitors parking spaces.

Four attempts have been made by developers to build on the site, with this being the only successful application.

The decision for approval also comes despite 12 objections submitted over the scheme.

Members of the public expressed concerns over safety, with some residents worried that people accessing the flats would use Somerford Road to park, resulting in poor visibility for motorists coming out of nearby junctions or children crossing the road.

Issues were also raised over the type and size of properties, their layout and design, a lack of parking at the site, and a general issue of “overdevelopment” in the area.

According to a planning report published for the scheme, the plans are said to have been amended during the process in a way that has reduced the bulk of the roof, altered the fenestration on the eastern elevation and removed the first floor rear balcony for flat six.

Bournemouth Echo: CGI shows changes made to the designCGI shows changes made to the design (Image: Aspire Architects)

The development is also said to be an improved version of plans submitted for the site previously.

The design and access statement submitted to BCP Council reads: “The new proposal has been designed taking into consideration previous main issues of refusal, taking into account the inspectors comments and ensuring the new design and layout overcomes the issues raised.

“Following previous development within the surrounding area this proposal seeks to utilise all the land effectively and efficiently to provide much needed residential accommodation within this location, and will assist the local authority in meeting its housing requirements.”

The developer also describes the apartments as being a more “visually appealing addition” to Somerford Road, and ones of a “traditional design”.