PLANS to demolish an "eyesore" Worcester pub and replace it with 11 apartments and a new drinking spot have been given the green light.

Worcester City Council's planning committee has awarded outline planning permission to knock down the Cavalier Tavern, which was once a popular haunt for football fans at St George's Lane North.

Under the changes, a small replacement pub will be provided on-site alongside 11 flats, with each one having a dedicated parking space.

During the debate, councillors said it was vital the final, detailed plans reflect the location of the site, backing up against the canal.

It was waved through despite concern the secretary of Worcester Canal Group, Adam Scott, and other nearby residents.

Mr Scott said: "The canal group has around 100 members and is led by volunteers.

"We feel this is an important redevelopment site on the canal and are concerned that it should be undertaken in a such a manner that the amenity and recreational usage of the canal must be maintained."

He said he was worried there would be too many flats on the site, telling the committee it must enhance the surroundings.

Resident Kate Stuart, who lives in Shrubbery Avenue, said: "My concern is parking - you can get home from work quite often and find there's no spaces anywhere.

"Each of these flats will get one space each but if you have two adults in each property, most will have a car each.

"If they can't find a space, they'll go up Shrubbery Road and just make the problems worse."

Councillor George Squires, who represents the area, said he has asked for local opinion and most people backed a redevelopment, calling it "unsightly".

The councillors all agreed the end appearance of the flats, which will be debated when a final, detailed planning application is submitted, must be of high quality.

Councillor David Wilkinson said: "There aren't many canal-side pubs in Worcester, I just hope we don't miss an opportunity with this."

Councillor Geoff Williams, planning committee chairman, said: "When the final plans are brought back to the committee we need make sure those details are bold."

It was voted through 8-2, with Labour Councillor Pat Agar and Conservative Matt Lacey going against it, while Tory Councillor Robert Rowden abstained.

The pub will remain open until September next year, when the lease expires, and Lowesmoor Developments will then knock it down.