PLANS to build flats on the site of a former Wirral pub have finally been given the go-ahead after developers lodged an appeal.

The Bristol-based Planning Inspectorate found in favour of Galliford Try's scheme for 38 flats at the former Millhouse pub in Moreton following a site visit.

The plan was unanimously rejected by councillors during a meeting of Wirral's planning committee last year and the firm lodged an appeal. 

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 developer and campaigners learned that the plan had been approved in an email today.

Ward councillor Chris Blakeley, who was involved in the campaign against the development told the Globe: "I, like I'm sure many local residents will be, am very disappointed by the decision of the inspector.

"Wirral's planning committee refused this application unanimously and yet it was approved by an inspector based in Bristol, who had a fleeting visit to the site and believes they know better than the council and, more importantly, local people."