RESIDENTS have welcomed plans to demolish a derelict former pub and replace it with eight new homes.

Red Oak Taverns has submitted an application to Cheshire East Council to knock down the Mermaid Hotel in Delamere Road, Handforth, and build houses on the site.

The former pub has lain empty since 2015 and according to neighbours has been 'attracting squatters'.

The proposal would see all existing structures at the site demolished to make way for six three-bed semi-detached properties and two three-bed detached homes.

A total of 16 parking spaces – two per property – would also be created.

Neighbours to the site are delighted with the plans, which they feel will benefit the area.

One resident, in Elworth Way, said: "Really love this idea. The pub has been standing vacant and attracting squatters for years."

Another, in Redesmere Road, added: "This will be fantastic for the area."

A design and access statement, prepared by CPC Planning Consultants on behalf of the applicant, said: "The property is currently a vacant public house and has been derelict for many years.

"The redevelopment to introduce eight houses would be a sustainable use of the land due to the housing targets of the town.

"It is located in a sustainable location and has access to a number of amenities within walking distance including the town centre, Handforth Library, Tesco Express and a dental surgery.

"As the public house has been vacant for many years, the property has not made a positive contribution to the social or cultural life of the residents within the community.

"The application seeks to make better use of the site and to erect eight new dwellings.

"Two parking spaces will be provided for each of the eight dwellings. Car parking provision for the proposed dwellings is considered to satisfy the local residential parking standards.

"Provision for bicycles will be possible in the garden area of each of the dwellings."

The deadline for submitting comments on this application is December 1.

To view and comment in these plans, search for 21/5423M on the council's online planning portal.