A CONTROVERSIAL application for six homes on an irregular-shaped plot at Fordington Farm, Dorchester has been approved.

Objectors claimed that the access, off Armada Way for five of the homes, would be narrow and unworkable, and on bin day, might get clogged up.

The sixth home will have its own access from Alington Avenue, which is expected to be used, temporarily, for construction traffic until the detached property is completed.

The detached and semi-detached homes planned for the site are all three bedroom with 14 parking spaces proposed by Sturminster Newton-based J&F Properties (Southern) Ltd.

Dilapidated former dairy buildings on the site will be demolished as part of the re-development although the main Fordington Farm buildings will remain.

The proposed Armada Way access, adjacent to No15, crosses a pavement on the approach road to one of the town's main sports sites used by the Dorchester bowling club, footballers and a rifle range.

Cllr Sherry Jesperson said that while a fire engine should be able to get to the site it would be impossible for two cars to use the road at the same time, made worse by bins being put out on collection days.

But despite her objection, and a similar objection from Dorchester Town Council, highways officers said they had no concerns, adding that the narrow road across the pavement might be a benefit, encouraging drivers to be more cautious.

Dorchester West councillor Les Fry said it was regrettable that only one house could be accessed from the north of the site and that no access was available elsewhere. An alternative had been suggested from Balmoral Crescent but was unworkable mainly because of a belt of trees.

"The access is not good, it's not ideal, but we have to follow planning guidelines," said Cllr Fry, accepting that there were no grounds to refuse the scheme.

A proposal to agree the development, put by another Dorchester councillor, Rory Major, resulted in 9 councillors voting in favour, two abstaining.