PLANS to build five homes in Romsey have been condemned by residents over fears congestion will increase.

An application was submitted to Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) to build five homes on land west of Cupernham Lane.

If approved by planning chiefs, the four bedroom homes and 20 car parking spaces could be constructed.

Now, residents from the market town have voiced their objections for the new homes, with one community leader claiming Cupernham Lane could become the "M3 of Romsey" if too many houses are approved in this location.

Cllr Dorothy Baverstock, who represents Romsey Cupernham on the borough council, said: "It is five more houses on top of other houses [in the lane] and possibly another 20 cars on top of the cars that are already down there.

"It is another nail in the coffin for Cupernham Lane."

She added the road is "called Cupernham Lane, not the M3 of Romsey".

Julie Brinton, who lives in Winchester Road, said: "I strongly object to this application. As a frequent user of the track beside the proposed new development I find the application inappropriate for the following reasons.

"The track beside the proposed development of five houses is narrow, with only room for one vehicle.

"There is really no room for a pedestrian and a vehicle - one has to step up onto the bank to let a car past."

She stressed each home could have "two vehicles and possibly more", adding she opposes the plans on "safety grounds".

The critic of the controversial application also believes the development could impact nature in the area, since the development could be built close to the "Fishlake Meadows" nature reserve.

She said: "The natural buffer of fields and woods should remain as they are."

Another resident said: "I use this path every day to get to work and back home, so it is essential that access is available throughout any works.

"I politely request that I am kept updated on this matter, as removal of access to the footpath from the canal will cause me and many others considerable inconvenience."

The agent for the plans, Sherlock Architecture, has been contacted for comment.

As reported, plans for nine homes in Cupernham Lane have been delayed after TVBC was due to decide on the application on July 14.

It is thought the delay has been caused by nitrogen pollution in the Solent, which has caused a backlog in planning applications.

It was revealed nitrogen from housing wastewater and agricultural sources accelerated the growth of algae, which is believed to be damaging protected wildlife habitats and bird species around the straight that separates the Isle of Wight and England.