PLANS for three developments in Oxford backed by TV presenter Kevin McCloud have been delayed after residents raised concerns.

The property expert, who hosts Channel 4’s Grand Designs, wants to build 109 flats and homes at city council-owned sites in Westlands Drive and Dora Carr Close, in Northway, and Barns Road, Cowley.

Planning applications were due to be lodged before Christmas, but Haboakus, a joint venture between housing association Green Square Group and Mr McCloud’s Hab development company, said it would not now happen for at least two months.

Development project manager Marita Ford said: “We have amended the design in respect of building heights several times in response to consultation feedback.

“We are now working through design and planning issues in the hope that we can finalise a planning application by May.

“We have received a lot of positive feedback from local residents and believe the schemes offer many benefits for the community.”

Concerns have been raised about height issues, overshadowing, privacy and drainage.

Martin Tasker, chairman of the Middle Cowley Residents’ Action Group, said: “Our key concern is the height of the building, which is four storeys including a roof garden. When we ask for any details, they are reluctant to tell us and get very defensive.”

The proposals feature a mix of social and affordable housing and will also see the Northway Community Centre and former Cowley Community Centre replaced with new facilities.

Georgina Gibbs, treasurer of the Northway Residents’ Action Group, believed more consultation was needed.

She said: “If they want to build here they need to think of the ethics of how it’s going to affect the area.”

The news comes as residents in Swindon, whose homes back onto another of Mr McCloud’s designs, expressed disappointment about the completed project.

Jill Little, whose home is next to the Swindon development, The Triangle, said: “I recognise all the issues raised by residents in Oxford.

“Now we are left with no privacy, flooding that is much worse than it ever was and increased parking issues.”

Haboakus spokesman Nick Taylor claimed all the concerns raised had been previously addressed and said: “Our plans were very much shaped and developed using feedback from local people.

“There is no evidence of The Triangle development worsening problems of flooding for nearby residents.”