A FORMER snooker hall in Shirley could be demolished as part of a controversial scheme for new flats.

Developers want to knock down the derelict Riley’s Snooker Hall in Church End and replace it with a three-storey block of 19 homes, with its own basement carpark.

But plans, submitted by ECA Architecture and Planning, have been met with strong opposition from residents.

Cormac Murphy, who lives in nearby Shirley Avenue, says developers are attempting to “shoehorn” a three storey building into a “limited space”.

In an objection, made to Southampton City Council, he said: “This is out of keeping with the character of the neighbourhood.

“It is significantly higher in elevation than the building it is replacing.

“The flats will overlook the entire length of my garden with clear line of sight into my bedroom, my conservatory and into the patio area next to my house.”

He also raised fears over noise, parking and the “cramped” layout of the design.

Another Shirley Avenue resident, Pamela Robinson, added: “A number of houses in Shirley Avenue will now lose all privacy to their walled gardens.

“It is good that a derelict site is being redeveloped, but this is much too high.”

Developers say the proposed building will be L-shaped and only two storeys at each end, preventing it from appearing “overbearing or monolithic”.

Alongside 19 flats, of which 35 per cent could be affordable, developers have also included a semi-basement carpark, with 20 car and 24 cycle spaces, and a communal garden for residents.

In its application the developer says: “The proposals make full and efficient use of this vacant site to provide residential accommodation and affordable housing.

“The proposed building has been positioned in an area of the site that will have minimal impact on surrounding neighbouring amenities, as there will be sufficient separation distance from residential dwellings to the east and Bright Glade court to the north west.”

The building had been used as a snooker hall since the 1960s and was last owned by national chain, Riley’s.

However, it was closed and later sold at auction in 2014, for more than £250,000.

The price was £125,000 above what was expected for the building, which was licensed for snooker until November 2014.

It has remained vacant since.

Council planning chiefs are expected to discuss the plans in the new year.