COUNCIL planning officers were today due to inspect a controversial new house that neighbours claim is being built six feet from its proper site.

Residents in Liberty Road, Newtown, near Fareham, say the four-bedroom house, which is still being constructed by developer Gary Jackson, has been placed almost two yards further forward than was agreed by planners.

Bumble Cottage is right next to the road overlooking other homes but according to the plans it should have been set back further, say neighbours.

Liberty Road residents Tony and Kate Cook said the property was ruining the balance of the area.

Mr Cook said: "It is very dominating. The cottage that was on that land before was a very attractive property built in 1830 and it was set back with the rest of the houses along the road. What is there now is not. Everyone is unhappy about it."

Residents have now submitted 17 letters of objection to Winchester City Council.

They claim that in addition to the problem of the position, the building is out of keeping with the area.

The development has caused controversy since plans were first submitted in 2002.

Winchester council leader and ward councillor Sheila Campbell said she wanted the council to demand that the house was knocked down.

"This is something that will also have to be investigated. The building is totally unacceptable. I want to see it knocked down."

Cllr Campbell called for the planning sub-committee to visit the site.

A spokesman for Winchester City Council planning department said he could not comment on the development at this stage.

Developer Mr Jackson and his agent, Robert Tutton, were unavailable for comment.