PLANS to knock down a derelict Oxford pub and build 16 flats, have been criticised by parish councillors and people living nearby.

Zaiqat and Shoqat Ali Saddique submitted an outline application to Oxford City Council in July to demolish the old Jack Russell pub, in Salford Road, Marston, and build three-storey flats along with 19 parking spaces.

Marston Parish Council warned at Tuesday's monthly meeting that the plans were out of character and represented over-development for the area.

The council was also worried about the density and height of the development at three storeys, as well as potential impact on local traffic.

Marston councillor Mick Haines described the project as “a carbuncle”.

He told Oxford Mail: “It’s too high and everything about it is too big. It is massive over-development and doesn’t fit in to the area whatsoever.

“I would like to see it back as a pub obviously, but I do think we need something there for the community.

“We have lost a community asset. There is no plan to get anything out of this whatsoever.

“It’s going to be a big block of flats that will stand out like a carbuncle.”

Mr Haines said he had handed out 200 leaflets to residents opposing the plans and that the response had been very positive in opposing the project.

The proposed development has also attracted a wave of opposition from local residents who have written to the council to make their feelings known.

Householder John Ramsden said: “This development will overpower the area as it is very large and out of character with the housing around it.”

Another, Janet Crane, said: “I believe these plans are over-development of the site.

“These flats are obviously aimed at families and the additional traffic and inadequate number of parking spaces will lead to an increase in on road parking and numbers of cars on roads that are already very busy and often congested due to parked cars blocking the roads.

“I remember this pub being a hub of the community. It is a shame to lose it.

“It would be good to see it returned to a community asset and give the residents of this area a base to socialise, as this estate has nothing else.”

Oxford City Council is yet to decide on the proposed development and demolition of the pub which was has stood vacant since last November.