DEVELOPMENT plans for a university campus have caused concern among neighbours who fear existing parking problems will be exacerbated.

Oxford Brookes University has applied to build a new research building at its School of Health and Social Care in Marston Road, Oxford.

It already has outline planning permission for 50 homes, of which 35 per cent would be affordable housing.

Residents who have seen the number of people parking in nearby streets rise since Brookes moved on to the site three years ago, are concerned that the situation will worsen.

Cliff Baldry, who lives in Peacock Road, said students drove to classes despite warnings not to, often parking on corners and verges.

He said the university should use the space to provide visitor parking.

A spokesman for the university said the research building would be for existing staff and students and would not produce any extra traffic. The details of the 50 homes, including what parking would be provided, would be decided by the buyer of the land.

Deputy vice-chancellor Rex Knight said: "We are aware of local residents' concerns about parking. We have invested in the U5 Brookes Bus service and have supported the introduction of residents' parking zones in the area."

Following a consultation with residents, a controlled parking zone is expected to be introduced later this year in the south Marston area.