A developer has returned with fresh plans for a former bingo hall in Littleport, just months after councillors cleared the way for housing to be built on the site.

Buckingham and Sparrow won planning permission back in April to build four detached homes on the site of the Regal, in Hempfield Road, with councillors ignoring the advice of planning officials to approve the scheme.

Now, the developers have submitted a fresh set of plans for the Regal, this time for six two-bedroom houses, three three-bedroom houses and a one-bedroom flat.

The company was granted planning permission last year to demolish the former bingo hall and cinema, which was also home to several community groups.

Agents acting for Buckingham and Sparrow said: “This current proposal has been facilitated by the recent changes in affordable housing provision introduced by central government.

“Selecting a suitable design philosophy for the development is difficult, as the site is surrounded by a multitude of styles.

“However, our design proposes two Victorian style terraces of small two storey dwellings, reflecting a traditional fen development.”

The agent added that the proposed development would “complete the street scene” and enhance the nearby Littleport conservation area.

In 2013, Buckingham and Sparrow offered to donate The Regal and its car park to Littleport Parish Council.

The developer offered the building for the community in return for the district council waiving a requirement for it to build affordable homes on a 60-home development it was working on near the Highfields estate.

But despite support from the parish council and a local campaign, the offer was refused by East Cambridgeshire District Council.

A decision on the plans is due within the next eight weeks. To view the plans, or to have a say, visit www.eastcambs.gov.uk