A KEY part of the multi-million-pound revamp of Southampton's inner city has been given the go-ahead after protesters lost their battle with developers.

The government has ruled objectors who stood in the way of the £12.5m redevelopment of St Mary Street must now make way.

It means developers Bellway Homes can now complete the area's regeneration to build dozens of new homes and shops.

Most residents and traders accepted compulsory purchase orders to leave the street and bulldozers have cleared most of the site and begun redevelopment.

Long-time resident Richard Hazelton and businessman John Overy, manager of Clutch Centre, refused to budge and took their fight to a public inquiry in July.

Nick Raynsford, Minister for Local Government, has now ruled they must move out, however.

Mr Hazelton said he would consult with his solicitors before deciding if he would appeal. "I believe that this new development is going to be the new slum of Southampton," he said.

"No one in their right mind can be proud of what is being built here - the human cost has been appalling."

Mary Travers, who held the public inquiry, said she sympathised with Mr Hazelton but his views were outweighed by the need for the land for the redevelopment scheme.

She said in a report: "Overall there is a compelling case in the public interest for the compulsory purchase of these lands. Without it, the redevelopment would be very unlikely to be achieved."

Councillor Paul Jenks, cabinet member for housing and community regeneration at the city council, said: "This development will enhance the local community by attracting many new people to live, work and visit St Mary's and the surrounding area.

"I am delighted that the Secretary of State has upheld the proposals. We will be offering support to the property owners if required and will endeavour to work with them to ensure that they find alternative accommodation."

Bellway's development manager Adrian Coots added: "I'm very pleased - it is quite a significant result."