PLANS to demolish an arson hit Whitchurch pub and replace it with nine houses have been withdrawn after it was met with objections.

Applicant, David English, wanted to pull down the former Horse and Jockey in Church Street, which has been closed since 2007, and replace it with nine homes and associated car parking spaces.

But he withdrew the plans on Tuesday (February 7).

Mr English confirmed he intends look at concerns raised by members of the public.

He said: "We withdrew the application as we wanted to address some public concerns about the scheme.

"We intend to submit a revised scheme in the near future."

Whitchurch Town Council voiced its objection to the plan in its January meeting citing overdevelopment, while other Whitchurch residents objected to the proposed development due to fears of increased traffic.

READ MORE: Whitchurch's arson hit Horse & Jockey pub could become homes

Phil Andrews said in his objection: "Nine units is far too many for the size of the site, which will be cramped with very little in the way of manoeuvering room for cars, let alone car parking spaces.

"Not everyone can live and work in the area without relying on transport of some sort.

"Public transport in the area is woeful with little in the way of a bus service beyond the town or one that would run at a time to enable anyone to commute to and from Shrewsbury.

READ MORE: Councillors oppose plans for housing on site of ex-pub

"The railway station is at least 15 mins walk away, with only a footbridge to reach one platform and therefore no disabled access.

"Granted that at this time of year and with things as they are economically things are quieter, but Whitchurch is a thriving place and another pub could further enhance the town centre."

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Other residents opposed the development due to the site being in a conservation area.

Dr Clare Bellingham said: "It seems to be becoming an increasing move for developers to request that space available for business in Whitchurch be changed to housing.

"While I appreciate that this particular business has not been operational for some time, it is still very central to Whitchurch and could become a business again given the right support.

"This site must have been significant to Whitchurch right back to Roman times, and still sits well within the heart of the conservation area with some significant features that are thought to be listed.

"Whitchurch is becoming increasingly popular with small businesses and the town centre must be supported by Shropshire Council in order to thrive commercially and not just for housing."