A WINCHESTER college has bowed to pressure from residents over a controversial new building.

Peter Symonds College has said it is now amending plans to change the location of its proposed arts complex.

The complex, originally placed alongside Hatherley Road, was not well received by neighbours, sparking widespread protest.

On Friday, the college wrote to residents informing them of this news and answered concerns that had been raised.

One issue was the new entrance on Cranworth Road. Residents were worried the number of students funnelled down the street would prove dangerous.

In the letter, the college said: “Safety is of paramount concern to the college. We have engaged a traffic consultant to liaise with the Local Highway Authority and Winchester City Council to ensure that the highway safety requirements are met.

“Currently all access points to the college are shared by both vehicles and pedestrians. The new proposed entrance is a pedestrian-only access.

“It is the first step towards the segregation of vehicles and pedestrians entering the campus.”

The proposed building seeks to provide a new base for art, pottery, textiles, graphics, photography and design and technology.

Gunilla Jones, of Cranworth Road, said the new plans were a lot better, but still needed work.

“It is much better for us now as it is away from the boundary,” said Mrs Jones, whose house will be next to the proposed entrance.

“It’s what we wanted, but some other residents on other roads many not feel the same way.

“That is understandable as you will never be able to please everybody. However, we would still prefer it on the site of the current art block at the top of the campus.

“Our main concern with the original plan was the precedent it would have set to build in that area. That would have been a nightmare, so I am glad they have amended that aspect of the plan.

“We will have to see if the college is really willing to change the plans.”

As previously reported by the Daily Echo, more than 150 residents had supported a letter asking for the college to rethink the proposal.

College principal Stephen Carville said: “I am sure our neighbours would agree that the children deserve the best facilities.

“In the light of concerns, the college has approached the planning department at Winchester City Council to explore a land swap arrangement.

“In this arrangement, the current proposed site could be returned to a green space, by demolishing the changing rooms and bicycle sheds.”

Mr Carville added: “In return, the new building could be located away from the boundary and near the rest of the campus.”