A CONTROVERSIAL plan to knock down a disused block of flats for homeless people to make way for a new development have been given the go-ahead.

The site is in the Temple Cowley conservation area, and the scheme will see 16 one-bed flats, which were formerly used as temporary homeless accommodation, with four one-bed, seven two-bed and one three-bed flats and four four-bedroom houses.

Residents and councillors representing the ward spoke against the proposed development in Salesian Gardens, off Crescent Road.

But it was passed after other councillors accepted advice that even if they refused the application it would be passed on appeal.

Judith Harley, who lives in Temple Road and is a member of the Old Temple Cowley Residents' Association, said: "It is the same number of dwellings as present but twice as many bed spaces.

"The existing road systems are even less able to accommodate traffic than in 1992 when it was built as so many more developments have since occurred.

"The proposed design is totally out of character with the surroundings - it's big, bulky and ugly."

Arthur Davis, who lives in Crescent Road, criticised the proposed building as too high and said it would "dominate the street".

The proposal involves contributions to the city and county councils of more than £53,000, going towards the nearest school, St Christopher's in Temple Road, Temple Cowley Library, indoor sports, open space and play areas.

Saj Malik, who represents Cowley Marsh, said: "This area is already over-developed.

"Why do we have to cram people in and in until there is nothing left? There is nothing wrong with the building, it was only built in 1992."

But Bryan Keen, chairman of Oxford City Council's Cowley area committee, said: "It is better use of the land.

"You are saying it is only 16 years old but people do not want that kind of housing any more and it is a better development - you will not have a chance on appeal with this."

Councillors voted four to two in favour of the development - which was recommended for approval by council officers.

The plan was put forward by the Cherwell Housing Trust, which owns the site.

A spokesman for the Cherwell Housing Trust said the plan was aimed at meeting local need by providing family homes for rent, shared ownership and private sale. Nine of the 16 properties will be affordable housing.