A NEW development of nine houses and a block of five apartments may be built in Astwood Bank.

Last night, plans for the re-development of the corner of Feckenham Road and Castle Street were due to be assessed by councillors on Redditch Council's planning committee.

Developer JS Bloor is looking to transform the former industrial site but was refused planning permission in September as it was felt the development would be overbearing for neighbours.

The scheme has now been altered and planning officers felt it had overcome the previous objections.

Though some of the houses will still be two-and-a-half storeys, the third floor of these houses will be in the roof space, which officers felt was acceptable and fitted with the surroundings.

Officers recommended councillors approve the application pending details about landscaping and boundary fences or walls being submitted.