DEVELOPERS have failed to secure approval for 44 new homes despite launching an appeal.

The controversial plans could have seen a mix of one and two-bedroom flats built on land off Solent Way, Whiteley, near junction nine of the M27.

Winchester City Council (WCC) rejected the proposal in March following outcry from a number of residents.

They argued the homes would create travel misery on the already heavily congested roads in the area, and that there was a lack of amenities for more residents.

WCC also said that the development would take over land designated for employment use.

Now an appeal lodged by applicant Kelvin Rawlings has been dismissed by planning inspector Jonathon Parsons.

Mr Parsons said in a report: “The main issue is whether the loss of land allocated for employment use is justified.

“Amongst the requirements is that the proposal would provide for a range of employment... or will provide significant employment opportunities elsewhere, especially within the established town centres.

“Given the residential nature of the proposal, there would be a conflict with this policy.”

However, he added: “The marketing report (MR) indicates no local requirement for employment use and concludes that the site is unlikely to be viably developed for employment purposes in the future.

“However, the MR does not demonstrate that alternative employment opportunities outside of Classes B1, B2 or B8 have been assessed... and nor does it take into account future expansion of Whiteley.”

The plans come just months after a new Lidl supermarket was approved on land opposite where this development would have taken place, despite receiving 90 objections.

Traffic concerns were also raised by resident then, after it was revealed 40 jobs would be created when the store opens early next year.