THE owners of the historic Cock Inn pub in Rubery have applied to Birmingham City Council for the building to be demolished.

Unique Pub Properties PLC and Malvern Estates PLC are seeking permission to develop the 19th-century pub on Rubery Lane into 12 homes.

The applicants hope to turn the building and car park, which cover 4,800 square metres, into eight detached and four semi-detached houses and a private access drive.

Built in 1811, The Cock Inn is one of Rubery's oldest pubs, and is thought to have lodged RAF pilots during the Second World War.

But the building closed two years ago and there have since been reports of anti-social behaviour at the site.

Councillor Andy Cartwright, who is heritage champion for the area, said: "I'm in support of some houses going there but I think The Cock Inn should be a part of the development - it's one of the area's oldest buildings and it should be protected."

Cllr Cartwright is hoping to hold a public meeting in the next 10 days with the developers to discuss his proposal.

He added: "There are people in the area like me who care about our heritage. At this meeting I am going to listen to residents' concerns and see if the company that is planning the build could at least put up a plaque to remember that the pub was there.

"Of course we need houses for people but that doesn't mean we have to forget heritage. There's going to be a new road there - could this be called Cock Inn Road? I'm sure the company want to keep people happy and I want all parties to be happy."

Anyone wishing to submit their comments on the proposed development should do so before July 14 on the Birmingham City Council website by searching for application number 2016/03617/PA.