A public inquiry into controversial plans for 84 homes on disused playing fields in Southampton will be held next month.

Sovereign Network Group, will challenge the city council's decision to reject its proposal to build scores of affordable properties at the former St Mary's College.

The application had sparked more than 180 objections from people living near the site in Midanbury Lane.

Members of the planning and rights of way panel refused the scheme after citing the impact on surrounding homes, the design and character of the proposed development, and the loss of open space.

Find all the latest planning applications via the public notice portal: publicnoticeportal.uk

Objectors at the meeting described the site as "the last remaining green space in this area".

David Fuller, a member of the residents' opposition committee, said the loss of the “green oasis” would do permanent and irreversible damage to the city.

But David Ramsay, representing the applicant, said: “The proposals will result in a place which responds positively to its surroundings and will create a balanced community of family homes to suit people of all ages.”

Jenny Grote, assistant director of new business at Sovereign, said the scheme would provide much-needed affordable housing.

She added: "We are aware local residents are anxious about the proposal and it is natural to have these concerns with any new development. However, we can assure members and the public that we are invested in our communities."

Sovereign lodged an appeal against the panel's decision and a public inquiry will be held at the Civic Centre on November 5, starting at 10am.

A public notice giving details of the inquiry has been published by the council.

Other public notices:

Southampton planning applications:

Singe-storey rear extension, alterations to first floor rear window, and conversion of rear of garage to utility room and home office, 30 Ethelburt Avenue - application number 24/01176/FUL.

Listed Building Consent sought for alterations and landscaping works to the curtilage, Latimer House, Cumberand Place - application number 24/01181/LBC.

Southampton road closures:

Lockerley Crescent will be closed from Romsey Road to Timsbury Drive from November 11 (8am-4.30pm) for carriageway patching. The works are due to be completed by November 12.

Coxford Road will be closed from Coxford Close to Birch Road from November 5 (.9.30am-3.30pm) for pothole repairs. The works are due to be completed by November 6.

York Close will be closed from Graham Street to York Close Car Park from November 11 (7pm-6am) for carriageway patching. The works are due to be completed by November 13.

Victoria Street will be closed from Britannia Road to Belvidere Road from November 12 (7pm-6am) for carriageway repairs. The works are due to be completed by November 14.