POLITICIANS were split over whether to allow a controversial housing development in Cainscross because of fears a planned footpath might attract anti-social louts.

A motion to approve the application to build nine houses on a site adjacent to Westward Road was overturned by one vote because the proposal included a footpath to a nearby park, which it was feared would be a magnet for trouble-makers.

The application, by Mike Penny of Church Road, Frampton-on-Severn, attracted 12 letters of objection from nearby residents and was refused permission at Stroud District Council's development control meeting on Tuesday, December 12.

Cllr Janet Wood (Ind, Coaley and Uley) said she thought the safety risks were being exaggerated.

"I think we are pandering to everyone's fears that everyone who uses that footpath is going to be a vandal or a hoodie or whatever," she said.

"Also, we have got to remember that we have got young families there - mothers with push chairs wanting to use that park."

But cllr Karon Cross (Lab, Cainscross) disagreed.

"There are anti-social behaviour issues there," she said.

"It's quite safe to use the existing alley. Yes, it's a bit longer but hey, if we're going to be green, use your legs."