A NEW battle is looming over the latest example of a controversial practice dubbed "garden-grabbing".

Knightstone Housing Association has lodged an appeal after being refused planning permission to build three flats in the grounds of a house at Eling Lane, Totton.

New Forest District Council rejected the application last year after the scheme was criticised by people living near the site.

Objectors said a proposal to create an access from Boothby Close would lead to an increase in traffic, putting pensioners and children at risk.

Families living in Eling Lane and neighbouring streets launched a petition in a bid to block the plans.

Now residents are preparing for round two of their battle with Knightstone, which has lodged an appeal with government planners.