Kingston Society’s support for a controversial plan to develop the filter beds site in Surbiton has been called in to question by a residents group.

In the past, the society mounted strong opposition to plans for a supermarket and flats, and fiercely fought to keep developers off the land.

Its u-turn in supporting the most recent proposal for 60 homes, a marina, residential moorings, restaurant and nature reserve has stirred up controversy.

Ken Peay, Surbiton Central Area Residents' Association (SCARA) member, said: “There are so many problems which are there that I just can’t see that their plan is practical.

“The idea is that Surbiton should have some open space left, which is quite limited at the moment. This is what you could call a green lung of Surbiton.”

Dennis de Lord, SCARA chairman, said their issue was the society had supported it so early on.

Jennifer Butterworth, chairman of the Kingston Society, said: “I am well aware that there are certain members that are violently opposed to the scheme, but we have to see how things pan out.

“What I am clear about is the present state of the site is appalling and an eye sore and it seems to the committee that the proposals have some merit. They are not ideal but the expression is that it’s as good as it gets.

“The developers seem to be ready to listen and I believe they have taken on board some of the concerns of the sailing club.”

Public exhibition feedback showed some of the public shared Thames Sailing Club’s concerns that the moorings would reduce the river’s navigable width.

Ian Pratt, on behalf of the club, said: “This would seriously jeopardise the safety of all river users and make continued, shared use extremely difficult.

“The club supports the creative rejuvenation of the Surbiton filter beds but not at the expense of the sport of sailing nor the safety and amenity of river users, local residents, the local community and the wider public.”

Their opposition was to the moorings and lock, which they said would create a dangerous cross-flow of river traffic along the narrowest stretch between Kingston Bridge and Hampton Court Bridge.

Results from a recent exhibition showed 95 people, 23 per cent of those questioned, felt the moorings part of the proposal should be looked at again.

Hydro Properties pledged to meet with the club again to discuss the concerns.