THE decision to approve planning for 73 homes next to a Romsey nature reserve has drawn criticism from Hampshire's wildlife bosses.

As previously reported, committee members had rejected the initial application to build the homes on land next to Fishlake Meadows nature reserve.

That meant Test Valley Borough Council's planning control committee considered the proposals, and approved the plans, lodged by Stratland Estates.

The decision to accept the plans has drawn strong criticism from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, who had strongly opposed the initial plans.

It means that up to 73 dwellings with access can be built on the land west of Cupernham Lane.

Reserves manager at the wildlife trust, Martin de Retuerto, said they remained 'deeply concerned'.

He said: "We remain deeply concerned that this development risks further pressure on the precious wild space at Fishlake Meadows nature reserve.

"We must now see a concerted effort from the local council and the developer to ensure that there are adequate measures in place to address these issues, and offset the likely impacts on the local natural environment."

After councillors initially denied the application, which initially listed 94 homes, they spoke of their concern that an appeal by the applicants could lead to costs being awarded against the council.

Head of planning, Paul Jackson, said the matter would need to go to the planning control committee, who then voted in favour of the application.

Stratland Estates, while not responding to comment on the approval, had previously said that they were disappointed having addressed initial concerns from councillors back in January.

Speaking at the time, a statement said: "Having resolved members' only concern, the applicant is extremely disappointed that committee disregarded the advice of their officers and expert advisors and voted to refuse the application."