CONTROVERSIAL plans to redevelop a site at Fair Oak have run into a storm of protest.

More than 30 letters of objection have been sent to Eastleigh borough planners over a bid to convert a house in Witt Road into three flats with a two-storey rear extension.

Planning officers are also recommending that councillors should give the controversial scheme the thumbs down.

Villagers who have objected to the proposal fear that if the plan is given the go-ahead it will increase traffic congestion.

They say Witt Road is already congested, with vehicles being parked on verges and pavements.

The protesters also point out that Witt Road is a rat run and parked cars already make driving along the road difficult.

They consider that the proposed development would worsen matters.

They are also concerned that it would pose access problems for emergency vehicles.

Neighbouring residents say that the flats would be out of character with the area, which mainly consists of family homes.

They believe it is also an over- development of the site and would put pressure on local schools and doctors' surgeries.

In a report, planning officers say that the proposed development would provide a more efficient use of the building and of the site.

However, they say that the density would be high and out of character with the locality.

Planners believe that the use of the front garden for parking would be damaging to the character of the area and to the amenities of neighbouring residents.

They are recommending that planning permission is refused on the grounds of over-development and an over-intensive use of the front of the property.

The application will come before tomorrow night's meeting of the Bishopstoke, Fair Oak and Horton Heath Local Area Committee.