AN application to turn a vacant shop in Stourport into a bar/restaurant has been recommended for refusal.

The applicant's plans for the Bridge Street premises have been defended by members of Stourport Town Council who are concerned about the number of empty and boarded up buildings in the town centre.

Case officer, Stuart Allum, said the proposed development by the Barracuda Group would "jeopardise the longer term comprehensive redevelopment of the area".

A representative of the council has requested to speak when the application is determined on Tuesday at 6pm.

This will take place at a Wyre Forest District Council planning development control meeting in Duke House, Clensmore Street, Kidderminster.