A FORMER railway station site in Buntingford could be redeveloped to make room for 24 homes. The applicant, Foxbay, which is based in Portugal, has submitted a planning application to East Herts District Council to demolish two industrial buildings on Asp

A FORMER railway station site in Buntingford could be redeveloped to make room for 24 homes.

The applicant, Foxbay, which is based in Portugal, has submitted a planning application to East Herts District Council to demolish two industrial buildings on Aspenden Road, next to the Railway Inn pub, in order to build two blocks of flats.

It also proposes to convert the old station house, which has not been used since the 1960s, into three dwellings, construct underground parking and improve access to the site.

The site is currently the Adam and Eve service station, which is relocating to the outskirts of Buntingford.

Architect Ian Knowles, of Sharman Knowles in Royston, said: "The design of the flats will reflect the design of the station house. It will fit in with the surrounding area and keep to a simple theme.

"It will benefit the town because research has found that there are very few one and two-bedroom flats in the town."

Deputy town clerk Eddie Plume said: "So far, the reaction for the redevelopment has been mixed.

"I think it will depend on how the homes are built. If it goes ahead they will be in an old part of the town, so people will want to see that reflected."

David Austin, 62, who lives in Fairfield, which backs on to the old station house said: "I think that the old railway premises needs tidying up. So as far as I'm concerned any improvements to the area should be welcomed and it's a good idea.

"I say this only if planning meets the needs of the environment, is tasteful, and reflects the area."

The district council's development control committee is expected to make a decision on the scheme at a meeting on September 27.