ANGRY Rubery residents face a tough battle with builders as a controversial planning application is resubmitted.

Carlton Developers has put forward an application to build four five-bedroomed houses on land at the back of 32 Beacon Hill.

Householders nearby strongly oppose the plan which would involve realignment of the road, removing grass verges and building chicanes.

The proposal was originally rejected at a Bromsgrove District Council planning meeting on March 12 with all but one councillor voting against the development.

The builders appealed against the decision but it was rejected by planning inspectors who said: "the site they proposed to build on contributes to the character of the locality as an undeveloped piece of land within the urban area."

Almost 40 residents met last month and more than 400 letters have subsequently been sent to the council objecting to the new plans.

Beacon Hill resident Val Henderson said: "People cannot see how the builders have the cheek to submit another application or that the council can agree in view of the comments of the planning inspectors, regardless of any changes made by the developer.

"I believe Worcestershire County Council's highways department must listen to residents.

"This development will not enhance the character and appearance of Beacon Hill. It will only spoil the distinct character of the street which is the gateway to the Lickey Hills."

District council planning chief Malcolm Griffiths said: "We are negotiating with the developers to make improvements to the proposals."

Hagley-based Carlton Developments was unavailable to comment as we went to press.