A CONTROVERSIAL planning application seeking to convert a Victorian semi-detached house in Worting Road into supported accommodation by the Society of St James (SSJ) has sparked overwhelming objections from the neighbours.

The application to convert 104 Worting Road, located 100 metres away from Basingstoke College of Technology, has received 82 comments on the borough council's planning portal.

Out of these comments, 79 individuals have voiced their strong objections to the proposal.

The objections highlight parking and safety concerns, negative impact on property values and lack of adequate infrastructure.

READ MORE: Plan to convert Basingstoke house to supported accommodation

SSJ is a charity that provides specialist support and accommodation for vulnerable people experiencing homelessness, problems with alcohol and substance use and other complex needs.

One resident, Edward Grizzard, wrote in his objections: "This property would already be an issue, being multi-occupancy, which we cannot prevent, but adding the risk of the intended population does a great disservice to all the homeowners in the immediate area, who put their savings and futures into buying here on Worting Road."

Another concerned neighbour, wrote: "Anti-social behaviour here is already an issue, as well as it being close to vulnerable adults. My fear is that this will further exacerbate existing challenges with drug use, crime, and anti-social behaviour. I am concerned this will have a negative effect on the community and the wellbeing of residents."

The Gazette also spoke directly with some of the neighbours of the proposed supported accommodation site.

Many of them expressed apprehension about the lack of consultation with residents regarding the plans.

Jessica, a concerned neighbour who preferred not to share her last name, said: "We feel our voices are not being heard. We don't think we will feel safe at our homes if this plan goes ahead. Feeling safe at one's home is one of the most important things and the council shouldn't allow this plan."

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Amanda, another neighbour who did not want to share here surname, echoed the sentiment and said: "We agree that everybody needs a chance to reintegrate, but we can't take this risk. I don't think this location is the right place for it. We have small kids. If something happens, I can't deal with a sorry. In case they go forward with this plan, we will be forced to leave the area. This is unfair and unacceptable."

SSJ's chief executive Trevor Pickum said: “The Society of St James has been consulting immediate neighbours to discuss our planning application. We have also been working with local councillors and officials from the local authority.  We are planning to continue to consult by holding drop-in sessions in the community in the coming weeks.”

To view the plans, check with reference number 23/02336/FUL on Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council's planning portal.