AMENDED plans by the owner of Cockermouth Castle to build three houses in town should be refused, said town councillors.

At a recent meeting they voted unanimously to recommend refusal of Lord Egremont's plans to build the homes on St Helen's Tanyard, which is off Tanyard Garth, St Helen's Street.

"This a safe route to school and the amended plans have not alleviated any of the problems regarding cars. The access is unsuitable for more than one car," said Isabel Burns.

The Civic Trust has also objected to the amended plans.

A spokesman said: "Following examination of the amended designs which alter the site layout and substitute a different house design the Civic Trust are still not convinced that the current iteration is either appropriate for the site or the wider area."

Graham Barney, of Tanyard Garth, has also objected. He said the amended application had attempted to address the access issue but ignored "the health and safety of the many schoolchildren, cyclists, horse riders, and walkers, who use the footpath part of the shared access".

He also said a large vehicle would have trouble turning into the entrance from St Helen's Street.

Lord Egremont has applied to Allerdale Council for permission to demolish the existing buildings and redevelop the beckside site, which is in the Conservation area. He hopes to build three dwellings and create parking.

The county archeologist has called for an archeological evaluation of the area if planning permission is agreed.

"Our records indicate that the site is of archaeological interest. Documentary records from as far back as the 15th century refer to St Helen’s Tannery," he said.