A PETITION of nearly 200 signatures has been raised against plans to replace garages with houses in South Ham.

The Basingstoke Extra revealed last week that strong opposition had been mounting ever since Kingfisher Housing Association announced its proposals to tear down nearly 250 garages in 11 South Ham closes to build 50 new homes for key workers.

Kingfisher say the aim of the redevelopment is to improve natural surveillance to the parking areas as well as provide affordable housing, but residents argue it would overdevelop the area, reduce vital parking and green open space that is used by children to play on.

But for one resident, the redevelopment could also mean the end of the business he runs from his home in Brewer Close.

Jim Davis currently uses five garages outside his home to operate his business of selling and repairing catering equipment.

He said: "I would not be able to run my business from here. I would have to think further afield but who's going to want to buy my house?"

The borough cabinet member for neighbourhood renewal, Tony Jones, also has concerns about the plan. He said: "They've not asked people what they would like or given people alternatives.

"I find it unacceptable they're not doing a proper consultation."

The plans, which will affect nearly 500 homes, would see residents lose 423 garages and gain 43 new ones. The number of open car spaces would increase from 386 to 563.

Kingfisher will ask for views from the borough council before reviewing the plans and submitting a planning application.

The petition can be signed at the home of Louise Pearce, one of three campaigning residents, at 20 Bardwell Close, South Ham.