A PROPERTY developer has revised controversial plans for the site of Powick's New Hing Tai restaurant after consultation with villagers.

Two previous plans to demolish the Chinese restaurant and build on the site met a storm of objections.

The initial plan for 14 residential units, including a three-storey apartment block, was turned down last November and a revised plan for 13 units was rejected this month following protests from Powick Parish Council, residents and local members.

They said it would be over-development of the prominent site at the corner of Malvern Road and Old Malvern Road.

The apartment block was too big, the parking inadequate and first-floor apartments in a separate block would overlook neighbouring houses.

Thamesway properties director Steve Watkins has since discussed the objections with residents' representative Stephan Flubacher.

As a result, new plans have been drawn up showing the apartment block reduced to two storeys and replacing the smaller block of apartments with a pair of semi-detached houses.

Twenty residents have since met district councillors Rob Richards and Tom Wells to discuss the amendments.

"Some people would have liked a totally different scheme, but we seem to have come to a reasonable compromise and everyone seems fairly happy," said Mr Flubacher.

"We were pleased that the developer was listening to what we said and talking to the council."

Mr Watkins said he had discussed details with planning officers, as well as representatives of the residents.

"We want to provide an attractive scheme for this part of the village that meets the requirements of the residents and complies with the planning authority," he said.

"We have got on well with the residents and are trying to create something everyone will be happy with."

The amended scheme now had 10 units with 20 parking spaces, and brick boundary walls at the side and rear, he said.

A suggestion that some of the parking spaces should be sited next to the houses, rather than all in one place, had still to be discussed with planning officers.

"It is quite a select development, with 10 properties all facing into the site, which is good for security," he said.

"We hope that the amended plans will come to the planning committee in May."