A CONTROVERSIAL bid for 70 new homes have been given the go ahead in Hampshire - despite being rejected by planners.

Hundreds of residents had also protested against the proposals for land at Hamble.

But government inspectors have give the green light to the scheme at Satchell Lane opposite Riverside Park Caravan Park.

It comes after the applicants, listed as Mr S Bull and Mr R Janaway, appealed following a decision by the Bursledon Hamble-Le-Rice & Hound Local Area Committee to reject the scheme.

But now experts at Eastleigh Borough Council may launch another bid to halt the development.

A spokesperson said: “The council is giving careful consideration to the inspector’s decision and is considering the potential to challenge this.”

A report that was issued to the local area committee last year revealed that had received a total of 203 letters of objection to the plans

Objectors stressed that the development is “out of context” and not needed in the area and it will “destroy Hamble’s character as a small village”.

Concerns have also been raised about the impact it could have on traffic and comments highlighted that it would put additional pressure on the junction of Satchell Lane with Hamble Lane which has deemed to be “already overloaded and dangerous, particularly at peak times.”

Despite the concerns raised, the inspectors report said: "The economic and social benefits of the proposal are worthy of significant weight."

Philip Rawlinson, 71, the chairman of Hamble Conservation volunteers said: "It's ridiculous.

"That particular road has a lot of traffic and additional cars are going to make it worse.

"Everyone is in objection to this but no one takes any notice."

Councillor Malcolm Cross who represents the Hamble and Netley ward said: "It's not sustainable, there is no footpath or public transport.

"It is not a viable transport link.

"I'm frustrated with the inspectors."

The applicants were contacted by the Daily Echo but was not able to provide a comment when the Echo went to press.