A planning row has erupted over the future of a disused garage site.

Liz Harris and 18 of her neighbours are desperate to ensure the former Wallingford Auto & Tyre Centre site is used for new housing rather than another service trade.

Concern: Resident Liz Harris

Developer The David Courtney Partnership, which bought the site after former owner Chris Millett closed his business in December, wants to build either two new houses, or new offices on the site.

But both plans contravene South Oxfordshire District Council's planning policy aimed at preserving the number of service trade sites available in rural communities.

The residents, who complain that the site is an eyesore, say the council should over-ride the policy. They argue vehicles visiting a service business would be a hazard so close to the ring road.

Mrs Harris said: "If the district council doesn't agree to housing, it will be totally ignoring the wishes of the vast majority of local residents."

The council's planning committee will discuss the plans for the site on March 20.