Developer Bewley Homes has submitted plans to turn the Robin Hood pub into two semi-detached houses, just two weeks after a planning inspector rejected its last proposals for the site.

A planning application has been lodged with Kingston Council proposing the main pub building be kept but converted into housing. Another four semi-detached homes and three detached houses are planned for the rest of the half hectare site.

A public inquiry was held over four days in February and April, after the council rejected an earlier Bewley Homes plan to demolish the pub and build housing. The council supported residents who said they would have nowhere to drink following the demolition of the nearby Duke of Cambridge

Inspector John Papworth decided two weeks ago the Kingston Vale pub could not be demolished because of its historic and architectural value. But he said the building need not remain a pub a decision the council must give significant weight to when considering the application.

Bewley Homes director Hugo Haig believes the new plan is in accordance with the inspector's decision.

He said: "The difficulty is to get the balance right between unit numbers and visual effect and I think this is a successful interpretation of what the inspector was looking for. We hope it reflects every issue raised at the inquiry and we would hope it will gain the councillors' approval without further delay."

The brick, stone and slate properties will be aimed at families and are described by Mr Haig as "carefully designed, high quality homes".

The two four-bedroom homes in the former pub building would have large first-floor lounges overlooking Richmond Park and landscaped gardens.

Mr Haig added: "The architect's inspiration was drawn from properties in and around the area."

Coombe Hill Conservative Councillor Patrick Codd said he could not comment on a planning application until it came to planning committee. But he added: "I think it's very disappointing the views of local residents are once again being ignored by a property developer. The needs of local people and of sustainable development and the retention of the charm of areas is brushed aside in the pursuit of money."

Coun Codd disagreed with the inspector's view that local village and church halls could properly replace the pub.

May 30, 2003 11:00