'Eyesore' shed to remain despite pleas from residents to have it knocked down.

AN ‘EYESORE’ shed will continue to stand despite pleas from residents to have it knocked down.

The large shed based at 81 Church Road, Woolston, has been earmarked by developers Sherlock Boswell Architecture to become two new three bedroom semi-detached homes following the demolition of the existing building.

However, in declining the application, Southampton City Council said the plans would offer residents of the property a “poor quality” environment to live in as well as well as being an overdevelopment of the site.

Many locals voiced their support of the development, describing the current site as “derelict”.

Linda Tyrie, a resident of Church Road, said: “I support the planning application to demolish the existing rusting, derelict building and to build two much needed family sized houses.

Councillor Warwick Payne, ward councillor for Woolston, added: “Having taken soundings from residents, the local view seems to be that the two new homes would be much more in-keeping with the area than the derelict shed/garage they would replace, which have become an eyesore.

“As a result, on balance, the proposed application would improve the street scene rather than detracting from its appearance.”

Not all residents were keen on the plans, with some voicing concern over parking.

The city council said: “The proposed development results in the creation of a poor quality residential environment for the occupiers.