A VILLAGE is set to lose its only petrol station to make way for new upmarket flats.

The scheme by Solihull-based Barteak Developments Ltd involves getting rid of Blakedown Service Station and creating 14 apartments in two low-level blocks on the land, which is on the A456 Kidderminster to Birmingham road.

Service station owner Priyal Thakrar said he felt the time had come for him to move on - despite last year being the best ever for the business.

"This has been a family business for 20 years and it is doing very well financially - last year was the best we have had.

"However, my father died a couple of years ago and my mother and I both feel the time is right to go now."

He said he understood villagers might be anxious about the loss of the petrol station, which also includes a shop and car sales.

"I know this is an important part of the village but I have to think about my family," he added.

Kevin Cooper, Barteak's development director, said the plans were in keeping with the upmarket commuter status of the village.

"The company follows Government guidelines in developing brownfield sites, concentrating on sustainable development in good commuter areas near bus routes and train stations.

"These plans - for 14 high-quality two-bed apartments - will go ahead subject to receiving planning permission," he added.