A CONTROVERSIAL plan to build a host of new homes has been approved by councillors.

More than 60 new houses have been given the green light to be built on Walney.

Critics of the plan said the new development would increase congestion heading across Jubilee Bridge.

Barrow developer Leck Construction has won permission to build 22 two-bed and 39 three-bed homes on Solway Drive across land once earmarked as ‘green wedge’ but now set aside for new housing.

They would go either side of West Point House – a luxury contractors’ accommodation. The north side will involve social and affordable houses and 49 car parking spaces. The south side will have semi-detached and detached open market houses, some with garages, and 97 parking spaces.

The plans have been approved despite the concerns of nearby residents.

In a report delivered to the planning committee ahead of the decision, Charles Wilton, the principal planning officer for Barrow Borough Council, noted a ‘significant amount of local objection’.

Residents complained it would add further traffic and parking problems to the area and heap pressure on Walney Bridge.

Residents also opposed the loss of green space and natural habitat and raised fears over a flood risk to the sewers.

North Walney county councillor Mel Worth previously told a meeting of Barrow Local Committee that the new homes would dramatically' add to the congestion faced by motorists seeking to get across Jubilee Bridge.

He said more traffic could increase the incidents of flooding on The Promenade, with the pumping station at Mill Lane 'unable to cope' with water volumes during heavy rain or high tides.