AN OLD pub could be knocked down and replaced with 33 homes that are “desperately needed” if planning permission is granted.

Developers’ plans to build ten terraced houses and a block of 23 flats on the site of derelict pub The Downsman, in Hangleton Way, Hove, are to be considered by Brighton and Hove City Council’s planning committee.

The green-roofed pub opened in 1956 and closed three years ago, prompting campaigners’ attempts to save it from development for commercial gain.

Dawn Barnett, councillor for Hangleton and Knoll ward, said: “It can only be a good thing.

“The plans are for houses and flats that are desperately needed. We need more homes here to cope with housing demand.

“It will improve the area and will look cleaner. Some will be to buy and others to rent.

“When I passed the pub years ago on a bus before it closed I remember there was only one person at the bar talking to the landlord.

“People are happy that there are plans for more housing.”

Thirteen of the 33 properties are intended to be “affordable”, with three available to rent.

The Downsman was designated as an “asset of community value” in July 2015.

Developers Southern Housing Group, Perth Securities, Colin Thomas and John Bacon are planning to include a community space on the ground floor of the proposed flats.

The developers would be expected to contribute £180,000 towards open space and recreation, local schools, an employment scheme and transport.

Currently, the only letter of objection received by the council states too many properties were being squeezed on to the site which would lead to an increase in traffic and extra pressure on schools and doctors.

The two terraces of two- storey houses will include four two-bedroom homes and six with three bedrooms.

The flats will be in a four-storey block, including a couple of penthouse apartments on the top two floors.

A report to councillors said: “Concerns have been raised over the potential for the loss of the existing recycling facility at the south of the site.

“The proposed buildings would result in some additional overshadowing and overlooking of neighbouring properties.

“However, subject to conditions for obscure glazing and details of balcony screening, significant harm would not be caused.”

Plans include 33 car parking spaces and 68 spaces for bicycles.

The council’s planning committee will consider the proposals on Wednesday.