A GROUP of Old Town residents has collected 100 signatures on a petition opposing plans for a new housing development they say will badly affect their homes.

The locals, who live along Devizes Road, Ripley Road and Avenue Road are objecting to a development of 24 two-bedroom flats in Ripley Road.

Residents say the three-storey development is too tall and will overshadow their homes, as well as threaten their privacy.

They are also concerned about increased traffic in Avenue Road and potential parking problems.

Graphic designer Ian Protheroe, 34, of Devizes Road, said although he was not totally opposed to the scheme, he was concerned about the height.

He said: "It is huge and is close to the boundary of all our properties. I have a walnut tree in my garden and from the plans the development would be as tall as that.

"It is so big at three storeys it just would not look right in Old Town. If it was two storeys we would all be much happier."

Residents are also worried the development could drive down house prices.

Sue Dutton, 46, who runs the Bradford Guest House, in Devizes Road, said that privacy was a major issue for locals.

She said: "We feel this development in essence is a positive thing however, we are not happy with the scale of the proposed three-storey building which will dominate the area and add to the already congested area.

"So when we are sat out in our gardens having a barbecue the people in these flats will be able to look right into our gardens and it will take away a lot of light."

DPDS Consulting, of Devizes Road, Old Town, is the agent for developer Fairhurst.

DPDS managing director Les Durrant said: "We are aware that a lot of the houses round there are two-storey houses

"But our clients believe that the homes are in line with Government policy to develop at a high density in urban areas.

"We are aware that some residents are concerned and have gone to the council.

"We will look hard at what they have to say and there will be discussions.

"However, it's difficult to say anything definite at this stage."

Coun Mike Bawden (Con, Old Town and Lawn) shared residents' concerns.

"Having seen the plans I think to try and put in 24 flats is an over-intensive development.

"I am also concerned that there would not be sufficient parking spaces.

"One per flat is not enough, at least one and a half should be provided

"I shall therefore definitely recommend to officers that the application be refused."

Meanwhile, in a different scheme, work is continuing at the former Fads shop in Devizes Road and Bradford Road.

Anthony Osborne