A CONTROVERSIAL housing development earmarked for land in Cressex has been given the green light, after several attempts.

Developer Michael Shanly Homes had fallen foul of planning laws with several previous proposals to redevelop land in Cressex Road.

But despite concerns about congestion and pedestrian safety, Wycombe District councillors pushed through the company's latest plan, for 13 homes and nine flats on the site, at a meeting on Wednesday.

Duncan Gibson, planning manager for the firm, reminded councillors permission had already been granted, on appeal, to build 14 properties and it made no sense for the improved plan to be shelved.

He said: "We believe this scheme is a good scheme even an exciting scheme."

Plans to redevelop the site have been rumbling on since April 2002 when duplicate applications to demolish the existing homes and build 24 dwellings were refused.

Subsequent improved applications had also failed to sway councillors, who claimed the development would set an undesirable precedent, leading to over development and increased traffic and noise.

As each application was re-turned to the drawing board, Michael Shanly came under growing pressure to present a scheme that would include 161 Cressex Road benefiting the overall design layout.

Cllr Brian Pollock said: "This is a much-improved plan now it includes the last house 161.

"I don't think we can quibble over access because it's the same as was accepted on appeal."

However, other councillors were less hasty to accept the application, calling for conditions to be imposed on the development, including the construction of a pedestrian crossing in John Hall Way.

Cllr Richard Pushman added: "I am personally happy with the scheme, but not happy with the future.

"We really should be looking at the long term of this development and so should the county.

" I will be having words."