CAMPAIGNERS have vowed to fight controversial plans to build on a derelict site overlooking the River Kennet.

Neighbours and councillors in Katesgrove are gearing up to oppose plans from housing developer Taylor Wimpey to build 70 homes on the former Lok’n Store site in Berkeley Avenue.

The developer was given permission in 2011 for 112 flats, but has drafted up new plans for a mix of houses and flats which it will be showcasing at a public meeting next week.

But Katesgrove councillor Matt Rodda is concerned that more flats, especially high rise blocks, will over-develop the site next to the River Kennet.

He said: “People want to preserve the natural beauty of the Kennet and do not want to have their gardens overlooked by large blocks of flats. Many people would prefer low-rise family housing if the site has to be developed.”

Planning bosses initially refused the seven-storey development in 2008, but the decision was overruled at an appeal. When developers applied to renew the plans three years later, they were refused again, triggering a second planning appeal. Inspector Christina Downes overruled the council’s decision.

But Cllr Rodda said he wants to properly inspect the plans to see if they provide an alternative to a high rise development and added: “Residents campaigned long and hard against the plans and they were deeply disappointed when the planning inspector overruled this.”

The open meeting will run from 4-8pm in the New Christ Church building at New Christ Church CE School, Milman Road, on Thursday.