PLANS to build five new homes in Romsey have been delayed, it has been revealed.

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, the plans have been pushed back after a decision was due to be made by TVBC on Wednesday, September 2.

TVBC confirmed the plans have been delayed, due to them needing "further details from the applicant".

This comes after Romsey residents voiced their objections for the 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, told the Advertiser: "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".

Hampshire Chronicle: Cllr Dorothy BaverstockCllr Dorothy Baverstock

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.