DEMOLITION work at the old Bymacks factory site in Dursley could finally be given the go-ahead next week.

The factory has been derelict for almost a year and has become a target for vandals and arsonists.

Site owner Crest Nicholson has put forward three planning applications to Stroud District Council, which will be assessed by the building control committee on Tuesday.

The main application involves building 146 homes, constructing the first section of the Dursley relief road, converting for business use the former Lister Drawing Office and the demolition the derelict factory units.

Stevan Usher, managing director of Crest Nicholson South-West, said: "We are keen to finalise the plans for this site and hope the planning committee will approve it on Tuesday so that work can begin at the earliest possible date.

"We believe we have put forward a plan that will bring real benefits to Dursley by using this closed down factory site for a good range of uses."

Planning officers have recommended councillors not to refuse the main application. This would mean that it could go ahead as long as certain conditions are adhered to by the developers.

Ultimately, though, it is for committee members to decide whether to approve or reject the plans.

Approval would certainly be welcomed by many nearby residents who have been affected by the fires at the site.

Cllr Patrick Blitz, who pressed for demolition of the buildings on behalf of Dursley Town Council, said: "As resident of a nearby street I would like to see the redevelopment and demolition be approved as it would eliminate the danger, mayhem and fires that have cost the taxpayer so much money in the past year."

"The development would hopefully bring people and investment into Dursley, which would benefit the town for a long time to come."

Following the unveiling of the master plan for the nearby former Lister Petter site development in September, the redevelopment of Dursley could well and truly get under way if Crest Nicholson's plans are approved.

A second application for 21 homes on land near Yellow Hundred Close has been recommended for refusal by planning officials.

The final application is for the demolition of a brick-built industrial building and a stable block on the Bymacks site, which the planners have recommended is given consent.