Angry residents have accused city councillors of "riding roughshod over planning regulations" following news that they backed the controversial plan for a modern block of flats in Winchester's conservation area.

The scheme, on the site of Herberts, the former hairdressers in Southgate Street, was approved by members against the advice of planning officers.

The plans were considered in July. A decision was deferred to allow the applicants to submit amended plans, as councillors felt the development was too high and too deep and would have an adverse impact on the surrounding listed buildings.

But last Thursday, councillors considered the amended plans and gave the go-ahead.

The outcome has disappointed residents and traders who feel the proposed building of seven flats and a ground floor shop is too large.

Dr Jean Normand, on behalf of the objectors, said: "We are disappointed. Although it is an exciting development, it's very much too big, too high and too deep."

Planning officers echoed the residents' concerns. But the planning committee ignored their advice and backed the applicant, Chalkbank Estates Ltd.

Said chairman, David Atwell: "I'd far rather see a modern design with high-quality materials in a conservation area than a pastiche that seeks to mock the listed buildings."

Alan Weeks, of Winchester City Residents' Association, believes the planners are riding roughshod over regulations. "They've gone against the policies in the city plan, held up by the officers."

He said he would continue opposing the scheme and might challenge the council over a departure from its local plan.

English Heritage also registered its concern. Responding to the original plans, it believed the flats "too big" and that the development "violates the principles" in the council's conservation area strategy.

David Brock, their inspector of historic buildings, said: "This as an interesting design rendered unacceptable by its bulk, rather then by lack of thought on the part of the architect."

Managers at the Hotel du Vin, which stands opposite, also have grave concerns. Finance director, Peter Chittick, said: "The rooms at the front that have a view of the cathedral will lose those views, and it has a financial implication for us."

But he accepted the decision and extended a warm welcome to future occupants of the new development.

Chalkbank Estates Ltd declined to comment on the decision.