PLANNING officers have been accused of having “double standards” after recommending a scheme neighbours say would normally be frowned upon.

Residents say a plan to demolish the former New Forest District Council (NFDC) offices in Christchurch Road, Ringwood and build 12 flats and three two-storey houses goes against council planning policies.

They also fear insufficient parking spaces will lead to the new residents attempting to “trespass” on their land to park in Woodstock Lane, Ringwood.

The plan was approved at the second attempt, after developers Current Asset Ltd removed a supermarket on the ground floor.

Chris Elliott, head of planning, said: “Despite the council’s interest in selling the site, the planning application was subject to the same formal process and policies as all other applications. We believe this development will be a significant improvement for this site.”