PLANS to build more homes in Picket Piece have come under fire from residents over the loss of green space.

David Wilson Homes and Wates Developments has lodged an application with Test Valley Borough Council to build 16 houses on land off Ox Drove.

An initial application approved in 2010 to build up to 530 homes in Picket Piece protected the proposed site as a junior sports pitch, but now the developers say this land is no longer needed.

They say a condition agreed by the borough council should be removed and have instead put forward an alternative application to offer a slice of green space behind an existing house which will not be built on.

The proposal, submitted on behalf of the developers, states: “Since this time no reference has been made nor indeed contribution sought towards the safeguarded junior sports pitch land.”

It added that the council has, instead, sought funds for sports facilities in nearby Picket Twenty.

“It is submitted therefore that the council has not required the provision of the junior sports pitch to come forward, as there has been no call for this to serve other development.”

However, the scheme has drawn criticism from neighbours, with 26 objections submitted to the council.

They say that proposed development and loss of green space will lead to anti-social behaviour issues as groups will not have open space to congregate on, and it will add to the lack of space for cars.

Many also expressed annoyance by claiming David Wilson Homes used the amount of open space as a selling factor for their homes and it could now be taken away.

In an objection to the council Deborah Hardman, of Galbraith Road, said: “We were sold our houses with the promise of green space, and to come back and ‘fill in gaps’ is just pure money making greed.”

Emily Stock, also of Galbraith Road, said: “To consider that the greenspace in question is not required as a junior pitch is entirely illogical; the area has only recently been sowed with grass and has since been used every single day by all families surrounding the area, ideal for children and parents to enjoy.”

And Chris Graham, of Thoroton Close, added: “My decision to live in Picket Piece was heavily influenced by the proximity of this existing green space, indeed this was a key selling point used by David Wilson the developer.

“To change the area in the way proposed is entirely unacceptable if not corrupt on behalf of those involved with the decision making.”

To view the applications, go to testvalley.gov.uk/planning-and-building/viewplanningapplicationsonline and search 18/01864/FULLN and 18/01891/OBLN.