A STOKE Prior school has hit back following claims by residents it is to sell properties in Brickhouse Lane for commercial use.

The Midlands Foster Care Associates (MFCA) has vowed not to sell Fieldview House, which it already owns, and Heath House, a property it controversially plans to buy.

Fieldview House is currently used as a school for children in foster care and company offices.

The MFCA proposal to buy Heath House sees offices from Fieldview moved to the new premises, freeing up more suitable rooms for the school.

Brickhouse Lane Residents Association (BRA) has strongly opposed the plan, fearing the company will eventually sell both buildings to another company, turning their rural lane into a business park.

Around thirty villagers turned out to express their concerns when Bromsgrove District Council chiefs visited the site on Thursday October 25.

Subsequently the decision on the proposal was deferred, at a council planning meeting the following Monday.

BRA member John Day said: "We have no confidence in the long term intentions of the company."

He also said the association has received full support from town Tory MP Julie Kirkbride.

MFCA director Jackie Edwards said: "We have tried to talk to the local residents about our work and our plans, instead they have chosen to demonstrate.

"We wish to be good neighbours and will be talking to the planning officer in order to seek a way forward."