WINCHESTER policymakers have agreed to allow the Silver Hill developer to reduce the number of homes in the city centre scheme.

Thornfield Properties can plan for 277 instead of 285 after the city council Cabinet agreed its request last week.

That will enable the developer to reduce the height of the proposed building in Middle Brook Street.

The move comes days after a rival developer London and Henly announced it was close to submitting a rival plan to develop part of the area between The Broadway and Friarsgate.