Plans to build up to nine homes in the Green Belt are set to be approved in principle.

Mohammed Saleem's proposals to develop land to the rear of High Street in Alsagers Bank have attracted objections from the parish council and 18 residents.

But the application for 'permission in principle' for between five and nine dwellings has been recommended for approval by officers.

Members of the planning committee at Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council will make a decision when they meet on Tuesday 6 January.

In their report to the committee, planning officers say the site is considered sustainable and 'grey belt', meaning development would be appropriate.

Only certain issues can be considered with a permission in principle application – if it is approved, other matters will be covered by a technical details consent application.

Objectors say Green Belt land outside the village envelope should not be developed, and raise concerns that the new homes could worsen problems with traffic and road safety.

In his objection, Alsagers Bank resident Mick Allen says: "Alsagers Bank is already struggling to accommodate existing on road parking and the danger of additional vehicles joining the road on a dangerous bend is already highlighted with metal, fluorescent bollards having been installed in the pavement to deter a collision on this bend – such an incident has already occurred with the boundary wall of the adjacent property.

"In addition, Alsagers Bank already struggles with significant traffic congestion at peak times of the day."

Audley Rural Parish Council says the application conflicts with the neighbourhood plan as the site has been designated a local green space.

The planning officers' report explains that issues such as highway safety and the impact on wildlife are beyond the scope of a permission in principle application.

And as the site lies immediately adjacent to the village envelope of Alsagers Bank, the officers say a refusal on sustainability grounds 'would be difficult to sustain'.

The report states: "To conclude, this site would contribute to meeting the housing need for the borough over the emerging plan period in a sustainable and accessible location which would help to boost the supply of homes in the borough."

Officers also say that the site meets the definition of grey belt, which reduces the protection provided the Green Belt.