RESIDENTS in a York community are being given political backing in their attempt to block a housing development near their homes.

A decision on a scheme to demolish a bungalow in Whitby Drive, in Heworth Without, and create five new properties on the site will be made by City of York’s Council’s east area planning sub-committee on Thursday.

It has been recommended for approval, but Heworth Without councillor Nigel Ayre, who is standing for the Liberal Democrats in next month’s elections, is to voice residents’ fears at the meeting.

He said: “There is widespread opposition from residents, with objections coming from almost every nearby property. They are understandably concerned by the scale of this development and are worried demolishing one home and replacing it with five new houses will have a negative impact on the openness of the area.” He said there were also concerns about extra traffic and the problems this would create for access.

The street is already busy during the school run.

A planning statement by consultants John Howlett Planning on behalf of applicant Janet Wheldon said the scheme was “generally remote” from Whitby Drive and could be developed in a way which “creates its own identity and sustains its own character”.

The firm said off-street parking would be provided to allow “the free flow of traffic”.