Sovereign Housing Association plan for 82 homes in Southampton sparks anger

People living near the former St Mary's Independent School site in Bitterne Park - where the homes could be built - met on Monday night to share their concerns over Sovereign Housing Association's plans.

They fear the development will cause flooding, traffic, anti-social behaviour, and affect emergency service accessibility and wildlife.

Megan Cole, one of the organisers of the meeting, said she is disheartened by the proposal as the entrance and exit for the site would be directly opposite her home in Monastery Road.

She said: "Me and my husband only completed and move into our forever home in January.

"Our appeal to buying in the area was the local green space, wildlife, and most importantly the quiet cul-de-sac which is safe to raise a family in.

"We are expecting our first baby in December and knowing that local schools are already oversubscribed and difficult to get into is concerning."

Megan's husband, Roger Farrington added: "We simply want to ensure it's sympathetic to the area and takes on board the real concerns shared by many residents."

READ MORE: St Mary's Independent School in Southampton closes

Organisers and residents effected by the plans

The affordable housing association behind the plans has yet to submit a formal planning application.

Maureen Aplin, 80, a Bitterne Park resident for more than 52 years, says she has concerns about the association as it has a low rating on Trustpilot.

Maureen, pictured below, said: "How they treat their tenants in the other sites is a sign of how they will be here.

"Their reviews online are bad and they don't look after their people."

She added: "My fears are the amount of traffic since it's jammed packed already."

Maureen Aplon, resident living near the former St Mary's school site

Councillor David Fuller, who represents Bitterne Park ward, said: "The development would have a significant detrimental impact on the local area.

"It would put increased pressure on local roads, schools, and GP practices, all of which are already struggling.

"Whilst we all know we need more housing this is simply the wrong place for it."

The housing company said the site will assist 'the city in reducing its current deficit of 7,500' affordable homes.

A spokesperson for the association said: “We value all feedback and have a strong commitment to work closely with local communities in the areas in which we operate.

"We are reviewing all the feedback we received and will look to incorporate this into our evolving plans, where possible.”

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