PLANS to change the face of Southampton's Old Town have been given the green light - despite objections from local residents.

City planning bosses have given the thumbs-up to an ambitious scheme dubbed the city's "French Quarter", which aims to breathe new life into one of Southampton's most neglected areas.

The multi-million-pound project will be constructed on the site of the city's former Habitat store.

It will see four new high quality buildings containing 175 flats built along High Street and Castle Way - ranging in height from four to six storeys.

Castle Way will be closed and a new pedestrian walkway will be constructed through the buildings, which will include balconies overlooking High Street and the new walkway.

Existing buildings will be knocked down and the area's pre Second World War street plan will be reinstated when the blocks are finally built.

Residents had objected to the scheme saying that closing Castle Way would increase traffic in the area.

People living in French Street also raised fears that the planned buildings would decrease the amount of light residents currently enjoy.

Members of Southampton City Council's Planning and Rights of Way Panel unanimously backed the project put forward by developers Linden Braemore.

Chairman of the panel, Councillor June Bridle, said the plans would open up views of the old town and allow visitors and residents to view more of the city's heritage.

She said: "I think it is a great opportunity. We should make it happen."