DERELICT land will be transformed into a housing estate and shopping area if plans are approved.

Proposals have been submitted to build 53 two, three and four bedroom houses, three shops, including a food store, and a restaurant, on land at Mill Street and Lockitt Street in Crewe.

Clowes Developments is behind the scheme submitted to Cheshire East Council.

As well as the two and three-storey homes and retail development, the plans also feature a pedestrian and cycle link between the town centre and the train station and 213 car parking spaces, as well as open space and landscaping.

The application was referred to the council's Strategic Planning Board because of its size, but planning officers have recommended it be approved subject to certain conditions, including an agreement to provide 35 per cent affordable housing.

A report which outlines details of the development says "the scheme will improve connectivity between the town centre and the railway station, as well as introducing new investment into the area and delivering important regeneration benefits".

Clowes Developments will provide 35 per cent of affordable housing, 23 per cent of which will be social rented housing and the remaining 12 per cent shared ownership.

The housing has been designed to reflect the layout of traditional 19th century Crewe railway cottages, but in a contemporary style.

The proposed shops will front on to Mill Street and create interest and add character to the area, says the report.

Residents in Lord Street, who live opposite the development site, have welcomed the plans.

Gareth Meredith, aged 36, said: "That area is a bit of an eyesore at the moment. It's derelict land, which is littered with broken glass.

"Housing and shops are a good idea. We could do with something like a Co-op so we can nip across the road instead of having to walk to Tesco."

Dennis Masters, aged 68, said: "I'm not sure how they will fit in 53 houses, as well as shops and a restaurant, but development can only make the area look better."

And Allison Baker, aged 34, added: "This part of Crewe desperately needs some regeneration. New shops and a restaurant will also mean the creation of jobs so that is good news for people in the town."

Cheshire East councillors will discuss the plans at a Strategic Planning Board meeting at Macclesfield Town Hall on Wednesday.