PLANS for two blocks of city flats on a site where campaigners fought off a similar development have been causing a stir.

Housholders living near the controversial plans for Tamarisk Gardens, Bitterne have stated they do not want the flats next to their homes.

If given the go-ahead ten two-bedroom properties will be built in two, double-storey blocks with parking spaces on the site of the old St Christopher's School.

This is the third time the application has been submitted in a different form and householders say they may fight off the developer once again.

Roger Stafford, a spokesman for the Tamarisk Gardens residents, said: "Originally the plans were for three-storey blocks but then they reduced it to two. We know the land will be built on but it is just the density of housing, it's bulky."

He added that the plans were not in keeping with the style of the other houses in the area.

Another householder said: "The developer is trying to squeeze a gallon into a pint bottle."

Pensioner Monica Paine of Midanbury Lane said: "They have tried before with 12 flats and now they have gone down to ten. We think it is just too many for such a small plot of land. The maximum they should be allowed to build is six."

She added that the flats would increase traffic and block up parking and overshadow a number of neighbouring houses, reducing privacy.

Last December, Southampton City Council received letters from 43 householder all objecting to the previous plans.

It led to planners throwing out the application.

Councillor Nigel Impey said a meeting would be set up with concerned residents to discuss opinions.

He added that they were not against development of the site but that it should not be too much for the land to cope with.

Developer, David Price, said he thought the main objections had been ironed out.

He said: "I have tried to work with them this time round."

Plans go before the council's planning and rights of way panel on January 4.