An application for houses to be built in Bushey that was described by councillors as "cramped" was approved by Hertsmere Borough Council's planning committee.

Developer Clive Thornton submitted an application, which proposed to demolish the existing timber merchant and joinery manufacturers in High Street, Bushey. And in it's place, build four, three bedroom terrace houses, which would include a habitable loft, roof lights and four car parking spaces.

The committee report states that 30 residents were notified, of which only four objected to the proposals.

However, Janet Batho, of Koh-i-noor Avenue, who spoke on behalf the residents against the application at the planning meeting on Thursday, February 12, claimed that only four residents were notified in writing and many more objected.

She said: "We objected to the application on the grounds that there is over development already around the site and this will not only have a detrimental impact on the surrounding businesses and houses.

"There is also insufficent parking and this will only add to the already congested street."

Councillor Pervez Choudhury spoke as an advocate against the application. He noted that the development would be cramped and that the limited car parking spaces available would make it "dangerous and inconvenient for local residents" living in the neighbouring streets.

During the debate, other councillors whilst admitting that the development was "cramped" and small, they commended the architect for designing the homes for such a small space and could not find any grounds to refuse the application.

Ms Batho said: "I was disappointed that councillors, whilst saying there were issues with the application, could not find any reason to refuse it. This is going to have a detrimental effect on congestion and some of the businesses such as the car wash."