DEVELOPERS hoping to build 400 homes in Alcester are launching a pre-emptive strike to try to stop land being pulled out of the new Local Plan, writes Helen Clarke.

Stratford Council originally allocated the site, off Allimore Lane, for housing but is now looking to take it out of the plan in the current review.

But JS Bloor, which is awaiting the decision of an appeal against the refusal of its development on the land, to the west of the Alcester Western Bypass, is sending out questionnaires to town businesses.

It is hoping to prove the need for additional housing in Alcester, particularly low-cost, to reduce the number of people travelling to work in the town in cars.

The company has engaged consultants Roger Tym and Partners to gather the evidence needed in case of an inquiry into the new Local Plan.