A DEVELOPER has finally been granted permission to build homes on a former school site after reducing the size of the plan.

It was the fourth time that developer David Price had brought the application for the St Christopher's School site in Tamarisk Gardens, Bitterne, before Southampton planners.

But this time he succeeded after scaling down the development from ten flats to four semi-detached houses.

Residents in Tamarisk Gardens have consistently objected to the plans on the grounds that the development was too large. But today they were celebrating.

Roger Stafford, a spokesman for the Tamarisk Garden residents, said: "We think this is much more reasonable for this plot and are much happier with it."

But he asked the council to keep an eye on the development for any future amendments that may creep in.

June Packard, who lives next to the site, said: "The developer has now covered most of our objections. I didn't receive a letter indicating this latest application had gone in and feel it was rushed through. My major concern now is any subsidence to my property."

Last December the city council received letters from 43 householders objecting to the plans for the flats.

Ward councillor Nigel Impey backed residents in their fight and the scheme was thrown out.

Mr Price said: "This time we have taken a totally different view. We can see how people felt the site was being overdeveloped and was overbearing."

June Bridle, chairman of the city council's planning and rights of way panel, said: "Having gone through the route of flats I am glad to see the final result is family homes. The residents have gone through a torturous route and I am sure Mr Price has too. I believe we have the correct development this time."