PLANS to extend an old nailer's cottage in Rubery have sparked a row.

Councillor Peter McDonald (Lab-Waseley) has hit out at a scheme to extend the cottage, in Whetty Lane, saying it is unacceptable and would take away from the original design.

The scheme to develop the old building has been submitted by the owner, another district councillor, Anthony Blagg, who represents Whitford for the Conservatives.

It originally included plans to extend the cottage, which dates back to around 1850, with a two storey, two bedroom extension at its eastern end.

The Special Architect Advisor (SAA) was consulted before the district council's last planning committee meeting and it said the development was out of character with the existing building.

Because of this, new recommendations were made suggesting an extension could be put onto the rear of the property instead.

Cllr McDonald said: "I think the cottage should be a listed building. Any kind of development would be a shame and a loss. When you buy a house like that you have a duty to help preserve its history."

It was agreed at the meeting that the director of planning services would be delegated the power to approve the development if Cllr Blagg agreed with the new rear extension proposal. However, officers will return to the committee with any problems.

Cllr Blagg said: "I have no intention to ruining the look of the building, I will be consulting with the conservation officer to see what options I have. I respect the age of the building. I wouldn't have brought it otherwise."

At the meeting, Cllr John Ruck (Con-Marlbrook) said: "We need to remember this was a working man's house and so changes need to be made to make the property more liveable."

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