RESIDENTS have warned planning chiefs they could destroy a historic gateway to Winchester if new development goes ahead.

The city council wants to redevelop Station Approach, the area between railway station and Cattle Market, with new offices, housing, shops, enhanced public transport, improved traffic flow and parking.

But Imogen Dawson, of Worthy Lane, told the local plan committee that offices would be out of place in a historic area.

She said: “This is an important gateway for visitors and tourists. Creating the commercial hub on one of the few large open spaces on a site of great importance would be inappropriate and unnecessary.”

Her views were echoed by Ashlynne Hanning-Lee, also of Worthy Lane, who urged the council to protect the city's history and heritage.

“If the council is not careful this time will be looked at as one of sheer vandalism,” she said.