RESIDENTS in Haydon Wick have voiced their concerns over plans to build three new houses on a small plot in a quiet street just yards from a primary school.

The proposals include the erection of two three-bedroom semi-detached houses and a one-bedroom coach house at number 6 High Street.

At a meeting of the Haydon Wick Parish Council on Tuesday night, residents who live in the nearby houses came out in force to make their feelings known.

Victoria Brown, who lives at number 2 High Street, said: “I have serious concerns with the whole proposed development. There are serious parking issues in the area already, two blind bends and I think planning permission should be declined.”

Councillors listened carefully to the half dozen members of the public who spoke passionately against the development and considered residents’ views as they deliberated.

The existing property at number 6, a site which amounts to 656.6 square metres, is a two storey building with attached side garage, both of which have received alterations and extensions over time.

The planning application, prepared by Ian Sullivan Architecture Ltd on behalf of Marydia Ltd, states: “An opportunity exists to layout the buildings in a fashion that will retain and reflect the character of Haydon Wick and the grain of the surrounding urban area.”

This, however, is hotly disputed by residents – and indeed the parish council. The fact that the development is thought not to be in keeping with the surroundings and the character of the area was, in fact, one of the main points of objection.

Anna McLoughlin, of 4 High Street, said: “This is not in keeping with the village of Haydon Wick. It will seriously encroach on all of us and the building work will be going on for a very long time.”

Sharon Wallis, who lives at number 23, said: “It’s an accident waiting to happen. With those two blind bends I have nearly been hit twice. This is a busy road at certain times of the day with people using it as a rat run. This development will be very detrimental to the area.”

After listening to the arguments, councillors objected to the proposal on the following grounds: overdevelopment, neighbours’ loss of privacy, the fact that it will be out of character with the area, the possible compromising of pedestrian safety and a failure to give adequate notice.

Plans also include six new parking spaces on the site.

The developers were contacted for a comment but failed to provide one.