A CONTROVERSIAL plan to revamp a former Hampshire supermarket is set to be thrown out by civic chiefs.

Plans to build up to 77 new homes and shops at the site of the former Budgens Store on Upper Northam Road in Hedge End have been marked for refusal by Eastleigh Borough Council.

The planning application has been put forward by Hedge End Holdings Ltd.

It would see 77 new residential apartments, a shop, a restaurant, a hot food takeaway and parking spaces.

Hedge End Holdings Ltd said that the plans would be the start of a regeneration plan for Hedge End and bring positive benefits to the local community.

However, councillors refused the plans because the development would cause unacceptable detriment to the character and visual amenity of the local area and the fact that residents of the proposed new flats could experience odours, noise and disturbance from existing dwellings.

Planners also said that the application failed to demonstrate that a satisfactory level of on-site car parking, cycle storage and a suitable internal layout for vehicles could be provided without detriment to the existing local community.

Conservative councillor Jerry Hall, who represents Hedge End said: “I think the development is far too big.

“At the moment there isn’t enough car park in Hedge End and this will make it worse.

“Also the design of the building doesn’t match with the character of the town.”

The final plans will be determined by the Hedge End, West End and Botley Local Area Committee on Monday, January 22.

An Eastleigh Borough Council spokesperson said: “Members of the public will be welcome to attend the meeting to express their views before any decision is taken.

“However they should register in advance of the meeting by email our democraticservices@eastleigh.gov.uk or by calling 023 8068 8000.”