A developer has launched an appeal over the refusal of a controversial housing scheme on former school playing fields.

Sovereign Network Group (SNG) is challenging the decision of Southampton City Council’s planning and rights of way panel.

The company brought forward the proposed development for 84 affordable homes on land to the rear of the former St Mary’s Independent School in Midanbury Lane, Bitterne.

The application attracted more than 180 resident objections, with those opposed to the scheme packing out the planning panel meeting in March.

A government-appointed planning inspector will consider SNG’s appeal, with an inquiry hearing earmarked to start on November 5.

Protestors gather to object to the plans at the meeting in MarchProtestors gather to object to the plans at the meeting in March

In a statement, a SNG spokesman said: “SNG has carefully considered the decision to appeal. We were disappointed that the proposed development at the former St Mary’s Independent School was rejected in March against the officer’s recommendation to approve the scheme.

“Southampton faces a significant housing crisis, with over 8,000 people on the city council’s waiting list. Refusal of this development, which has a focus on family housing, means that the local housing shortage will be exacerbated for those needing a home.

“Our development would have provided a vital contribution to addressing this shortage, offering 84 much-needed homes. By directing our strategic partnership grant secured from Homes England, we could deliver 42 social rented and 42 shared ownership homes.”

READ MORE: Decision made on 84 homes on affordable homes plan

The proposed housing mix is eight one-bed flats, 24 two-bed flats, 27 two-bed houses, 22 three-bed houses and three four-bed houses.

Objecting residents raised concerns at the March meeting over the loss of the open space, increased traffic, the road layout, flooding issues and demand on public services.

The site was described as “the last remaining green space in this area” by campaigners.

READ MORE: Former school playing field could be turned into 84 homes

There was a dispute between residents and the applicant over whether anyone had been able to access the field in its current state.

Sport England had also objected to the proposed loss of the former school playing fields despite SNG making a pledge to provide £613,000 towards improving sports facilities at nearby Riverside Park.

Councillors went against the recommendation of local authority planning officers when they refused permission by three votes to one.

The reasons for refusal were the loss of open space and playing fields, the design of the development not being commensurate with the surrounding area and the impact on residential amenity in Monastery Road from increased traffic movements.