A PLANNING Inspectorate officer has visited the site of a former Wirral pub that is earmarked for redevelopment.

It was part of an appeal lodged by developer Galliford Try after its bid to build 38 flats at the former Millhouse in Moreton was rejected by councillors.

The proposal sparked a local protest with around 150 people signing a petition and more than 40 letters being sent to the council opposing the scheme.

Their concerns were that the development would be too high, out of character with the character of the surrounding neighbourhood and could lead to traffic problems.

The scheme was rejected by Wirral's planning committee in October and the firm then lodged an appeal.

Among those attending this morning's site visit were representatives from Galliford Try and 24 local residents who are opposed to the proposed development.

No one was allowed to make any representations during the visit, which was described by ward councillor Chris Blakeley as 'very thorough'.

He told the Globe: "I would like to thank all the local residents who attended today's site visit by the planning inspector. 

"I hope the inspector recognises the strength of opposition to this proposal and the unanimous decision by Wirral's planning committee to refuse this inappropriate application and dismiss the appeal. 

"The people who live here deserve to have a development that fits in with the existing Streetscene."

In a recent email to the developer and councillors, the Planning Inspectorate said there was "no obvious benefit in holding a hearing."

It said the inspector should be able to come to an informed conclusion on the basis of the written evidence submitted and a site visit.

No date has been released for when the inspectors' decision will be published.

Among those attending today's site visit was Peter Levis, who has lived opposite the Millhouse for 17 years.

He said: "Common sense would say no to this proposal. The planned development is just too high and would not fit in with the surrounding area.

"It would also lead to parking problems. The road is already busy enough as it is."

Neighbour Peter McDonald, who has lived in Millhouse Lane for 14 years, added: "We know something has to go there, but we don't need a three-storey block of flats. Two storeys would be better."