A FACTORY in Worcester could be knocked down and replaced by new homes.

Skyparts wants to build 22 homes on its site in Checketts Lane, Northwick.

The 17-year-old car parts firm, which employs 24 people, has found an alternative site in Blackpole Road, but says it could not afford to move without the buy-out.

"The Government has been trying to get brownfield sites used for housing rather than take up the Greenbelt and they have been urging local councils to back just what we are trying to do," said company owner Colin Skyrme.

"The alternative to moving is to expand on this site, which is a little bit silly, because we've got houses all around us except right at the bottom corner.

"We get numerous complaints about articulated lorries pulling up here and really we shouldn't have commercial property on Checketts Lane. It should all be housing."

Peter Yates, planning manager at Worcester City Council, said the application differed to one printing company Goodman Baylis, from which, was refused last month.

The firm, based in London Road, also wants to relocate, but had its proposal rejected by councillors because the site must be used for jobs - according to city plans.

"The key difference between the two is that the Skyparts land isn't allocated for anything which means it is fair game for housing," said Mr Yates.