PLANS to transform a long-derelict Marston pub into housing have risen from the ashes after it was gutted two months ago in an arson attack.

The Jack Russell Pub was set ablaze on November 12 in what police are treating as arson.

No suspects have been identified or any arrests made, and the site owners have now submitted another application to demolish the former pub and create 16 flats on a three-storey building, together with 19 car parking spaces.

It comes after previous plans for the development, which sparked a backlash from residents and councillors, were withdrawn.

Marston councillor Mick Haines said he is against the latest proposal, and blasted the plans as a 'carbuncle'.

He said: "I am opposing it. It is an eyesore, as I said before its a carbuncle.

"I am going to get people that are already against it to write in and oppose it. Because we really want it for the community.

"We are losing an asset and the worry is with the flooding and sewage situation because more flats will put a strain on the system."

Residents, meanwhile, have so far reacted largely positively to the latest plans.

Layla Blue, of Old Marston Road said: "Although sad to see yet another community asset, public house closure, I fully support this application as we are all well aware of the need of housing in Oxford.

"This is a prime location with ease of access to the town centre and the hospitals and provides substantial housing which is much needed in this area too.

"The building has been derelict for over two years and the delay in the planning process only generates more bad press and negativity.

"As much as the delays will be frustrating for the owner, as local residents, we are also tired of seeing the area and building in dire state."

Liaqat Ali of Inott Furze, Lye Valley, said: "A great use of a underused site. A pub that was no longer a viable business.

"This development will bring much needed housing and provided 50 per cent social housing to the area.

"Yes we will lose a pub, a pub that was not working as a business. It was no longer a business hence the brewery sold it.

"A great idea for a private developer to come forward a wonderful new building with as mentioned provide much needed affordable housing.

"Why has it taken so long ? We need more developments like so in Oxford. Which is in dire need of housing it has been stressed in main stream media up and down the country."

The Jack Russell Pub, in Salford Road, has stood derelict since it was sold by brewery Greene King in October 2015.