New flats in Woodley town could create a “wind tunnel” if councillors give it the go ahead, residents have said.

Mr Hardeep Hans wants permission to build a row of 14 apartments above a row of flats on Library Parade. This would involve adding two extra storeys to the building, which currently houses shops on the ground floor and offices above.

Wokingham Borough Council’s planning committee have already refused permission to a similar proposal at its meeting on March 8 this year.

They said the new apartments would overlook flats in neighbouring Sandford Court, causing them a loss of privacy.

Now planners have submitted a new application that they say resolves this. But some nearby residents have written in objecting to the extra storeys.

Kate Barker-Kite of nearby Headley Road wrote: “I am concerned about the increased traffic the new flats would bring to what is already a congested area with lack of parking for residents and retail unit owners.

“I also believe that due to the increased height, Library Parade will become a wind tunnel with decreased light and general appeal - affecting the current retail units.”

Graham Blackaby of Ambleside Close said: “This application would allow a building to be built right next to my back garden and reduce the natural light.

“Also I would be overlooked by the residents and restrict my view I would be looking at the bathroom or shower room of the planned build. I strongly object to this application.”

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Other residents worry that the new flats will create parking problems. Michaela Dalton of Crockhamwell Road said: “The development is not offering sufficient parking for either the retail staff or residents and severely lacks considerate planning in terms of parking.

“The result is going to lead to chaotic parking and frustration as well as potential safety issues for pedestrians.”

But planning officers are recommending that councillors approve the plans at their meeting on Wednesday June 14. Their report to the committee notes that the plans tried to overcome previous rejections by reducing the number of flats and their nearness to Sandford Court.

It also says the plans – which include car and cycle parking – are “satisfactory” due to its “town centre location. It adds the size and design of the plans are “in keeping with the street scene” and improve one of the access points to the town centre.