PLANS to transform a former Moreton biscuit factory into more than 230 homes crumbled after they were turned down by councillors.

Burtons Foods had applied for permission to redevelop its former factory site – which later became Premier Brands UK - on Pasture Road but Wirral’s planning committee said it should be retained for employment use, rather than housing.

The company argued that along with 234 family homes, the scheme could also create new jobs by providing infrastructure to generate investment in the site, encouraging development of small- to medium-sized business units.

But Wirral council planners examining the proposals had advised councillors against the plans and at a meeting of the council's planning committee - held at Wallasey Town Hall on Wednesday - they voted overwhelmingly in favour of the recommendation, putting an end to the biscuit company's plans.

The site was originally developed for the production of confectionary by Cadbury’s in the early 1950s.

Expansion of the original buildings and production was extended through the 1950s, 60s and 70s and employed 4,000 staff at the peak of operations.

The company makes Maryland Cookies, Jammie Dodgers and Wagon Wheels.