The redevelopment of Ham Close moved a step forward this week as a series of consultations with residents came to a close.

Over the past two years RHP has worked with residents to design the redevelopment of the area in which there are currently 192 housing association homes.

RHP has said it wants to build 400 homes.

The first consultation was on the financial viability of the project, which was followed by workshops on transport infrastructure, open space and landscaping.

Ward councillor Penelope Frost said the workshops were constructive, especially the two on how the area’s open space should be used.

Cllr Frost said: “It will be challenging – going from 192 to 400 homes – because it will either make Ham Close more densely populated on the ground or they will have to build upwards.

“Residents are also concerned about the extra pressure on transport infrastructure, because the links are poor as it is.

“But they were constructive workshops; there was a good turnout and people got their say.”

Residents were told in July 2015 there were two options for the estate; demolition of 192 –home development and the erection of 400 new units or to leave the estate as it is.