CAMPAIGNERS fighting to preserve the character of their Winchester street have suffered a setback.

A planning inspector has ruled that a developer can demolish a house in Chilbolton Avenue and build 13 homes at number 55.

Colten Developments wants to build a block of six flats, another block of two and five houses on the site.

Neighbours objected to the scheme fearing that it would be yet another blow to the leafy character of the upmarket road.

They say the developers are gradually 'urbanising' a semi-rural road.

However, JP Roberts, the planning inspector who held the public inquiry on dates in November and January, disagreed.

In his report, he wrote: "In my view the proposal would fit in well with the predominant characteristics of the area. The flats and houses proposed to the rear would be largely hidden from public viewpoints."

Mr Roberts said the Colten scheme meets the new government requirement to make more efficient use of land whilst still respecting the character of the area.

Chilbolton Avenue has been a battleground between developers and residents campaigning against the erosion of character.

Earlier this year the Daily Echo revealed that some back gardens in Chilbolton Avenue were being bought by developers for sums of up to £500,000. Developers are making offers in other areas including Kings Worthy.

Michael Newby, a leading campaigner, of Chilbolton Avenue, said: "It is difficult to say how important this decision is. The inspector was careful to say he was not setting a precedent.

"But there is an impact on morale. People are questioning whether they want to continue living on the avenue. There's the domino effect. Once one falls the others follow in line."

The city council is producing a "design statement'' for the road which campaigners hope will help repel the developers.