PROPOSALS to knock down a historic pub in Deane and build 32 properties in its place have been rejected by planning officers.

Mercury Forecourts applied for outline permission to demolish The Stags Head pub in Junction Road to make space for eight houses and 24 apartments and maisonettes, as well as ground floor retail space.

If approved the business, based in Blackburn Road, said it would create 12 full-time jobs and provide more affordable housing for people on low incomes and for students.

But Bolton Council refused the plans — arguing that there were not enough details on how the proposed development would impact on the surrounding conservation area, and the Stag’s Head was listed as being of “special architectural or historical interest”.

The company can appeal by referring the application to the planning inspectorate.