TWENTY-ONE affordable homes are to be built in Stanmore after planning chiefs approved plans to build on the site of the estate’s last pub.

Winchester City Council gave the green light for the council houses on the former site of the New Queens Head in Stanmore Lane at a planning committee.

The estate’s last pub was controversially demolished last year after a £1m council buy-out to free land for housing. There were no objections to building on the now-empty site.

Stanmore's other pub, the Stanmore Hotel, was knocked down to be replaced by a retirement home.

The new one, two and three-bedroom homes will be saved for local people on the social housing list.

St Luke ward councillor Rose Prowse said: “I mourn the loss of two pubs, but I do believe this is good news for Stanmore. Our families do struggle with finding affordable homes that adequately accommodate them.”

Cllr Ian Tait, portfolio holder for housing services, said he “whole-heartedly endorsed” the plans.

He said: “All of a sudden we’re actually seeing what is so much needed and supported by communities in Winchester – delivery of effective affordable housing. Twenty-one homes here will make a real difference.”

An improved footpath connecting Stanmore Lane to the Carroll Centre and Stanmore Recreation Ground will also be built as part of the plans.

“The Carroll Centre is tucked away but anything we can do to get more people heading in that direction is to be welcomed,” Cllr Prowse added.