AN INQUIRY has begun to decide whether planners were right reject an application to build 53 flats in five blocks in an area already dubbed "flatsville".

Developers White Young Green Planning appealed after Fareham Council turned down plans for the flats in Southampton Road, Park Gate.

Planning inspector William Cunningham has been hearing evidence at a two-day inquiry into the planning row over the site on the Segensworth roundabout.

Fareham planners rejected the plans because of the the design and siting of the blocks, the impact on neighbours and a lack of parking provision and its impact on traffic using Southampton Road.

The developers argue the land is a prime site for new housing with a host of local amenities and transport links.

Jonathan Easton, on behalf of Fareham Council, said: "Our concern is the relationship between the buildings. We believe this will be harmful and jarring.

"We categorise the area around this site as one of low accessibility. It has been designed with a car in mind and is unattractive and unsafe for cyclists." He claimed it was highly unlikely that area would be reached by foot, cycle or bus.

Rupert Warren, on behalf of White Young Green Planning, said: "The scheme optimises the use of this site in what is a highly accessible location by foot, cycle, bus and rail. It is ideally located for major employment and has retail and leisure facilities within striking distance."

Three letters from residents, 31 objections and an 84-signature petition opposing the scheme will also be considered.

Residents say the area does not have the services needed to support a huge influx of new people.

Councillors fear a planning crisis is looming with roads, schools, doctors and dentists all overstretched and a lack of open spaces.

Fareham councillor Peter Davies described the area as "flatsville" when speaking of his concerns after planners agreed two other developments - of 17 flats and 49 flats in the centre of Park Gate.

Fareham council leader leader Councillor Sean Woodward and MP Mark Hoban have challenged the government's planning minister Keith Hill MP over a lack of local influence on planning decisions.

A decision is expected by mid-April.