REVISED plans have been received to build nearly 60 homes on the old Arkay House site in Weyhill Road, Andover.

Last year planners granted permission for a similar development of 61 units subject to a number of conditions and legal agreement. On this basis the developers proceeded to demolish the industrial building on site, action which did not need planning permission. Work also started on the construction of houses facing Weyhill Road. But a hitch meant that the applicant could not sign the legal agreement.

So the site does not have planning permission and members of northern area planning committee are due to discuss the proposal again next week.

The new plans are slightly smaller with only 59 proposed homes and planning officers say there are no material changes from the original scheme.

A report to the committee says: "Clearly, however, the main discussion will need to centre on the changes now proposed and whether the development is acceptable in all respects.

Members are advised that despite the applicant commencing development without the benefit of planning permission, this should have no bearing on the decision of the committee."

The report says the principle of development, the level of public open spaces, highways issues, and density remain substantially unchanged as a result of the amendments - so officer advice for approval remains unchanged.

The proposed development also meets the council's policy on affordable housing.

Officers recommend approval subject to a number of conditions including a financial contribution for off-site public open spaces, provision of an equipped children's area and off-site highway improvement works.