THE developers behind rejected plans to demolish the former Greyhound inn pub in Rock Hill have reiterated their desire to build “affordable homes” on the site.

Catesby Estates’ call comes after Bromsgrove Labour party questioned the lack of affordable housing in the district in the Advertiser last month.

The firm has had two applications to replace the pub with a roundabout, and build 490 homes off Whitford Road, rejected by council planners since it closed in 2016.

Plans prompted more than 200 angry letters from residents against the development, while Labour and Independent councillors have also strongly opposed it.

But Catesby Estates have pushed hard on their proposals once more, telling the Advertiser they hope to bring their plan back to council in Spring, subject to a consultation process.

Planning director David Morris said: “There is a shortage of affordable new homes in Bromsgrove, and that is why in line with the council’s requirements we will be providing 40 per cent affordable housing on our site in Whitford Road.

“This proposal will provide an additional 202 new homes targeted at the young Bromsgrove families and first time buyers struggling to get onto the housing ladder.

“Research commissioned by Catesby Estates also show that Bromsgrove district is the least affordable of all the Worcestershire local planning authorities.

“If you take into account the 40 per cent affordable housing also being proposed by Taylor Wimpey at their Perryfields site, 722 affordable homes will be delivered, which would be a real boost for the Labour Party aspirations for the area and those looking to get on the housing ladder in Bromsgrove.”

A Bromsgrove Labour party spokesman said they welcome any housing developments, provided they are "truly affordable, sustainable and infrastructure-conscious".

Labour cllr Luke Mallett, who has been fighting the proposals, believes the plan does not tick those boxes.

He added: "It's a shame Catesby Estates didn't spend less time posturing and more time really understanding the traffic infrastructure of Bromsgrove.

"The provision of affordable homes for Bromsgrove people is of course a massive priority, but there must be the right infrastructure first.

"Catesby have bought into a site on the west of Bromsgrove and are not willing to fork out to put in place the infrastructure needed - such as a Western relief road.

"It is clear Catesby are more interested in their shareholders than the people of Bromsgrove and their proposals risk adding to the traffic gridlock in the town.

"This is little more than virtue signalling from a developer that does not want to be held to account for the traffic chaos they will create."

More than 340 people have responded to a public consultation, which expires on Monday, February 12. To comment, visit bromsgrove.gov.uk/planning citing reference number 16/1132.