KINGTON town councillors say they are disappointed plans for the long-awaited development of the town’s Wesleyan Chapel were not discussed with residents before a decision is made next week.

Agents from JR Homes declined to attend a public meeting on Monday to talk over proposals for nine one bedroom flats before they go to the planning committee on Wednesday.

Mayor councillor Allan Lloyd said the town council was still keen to meet the Builth Wells developer and would now be addressing the committee before it decided on the application.

But JR managing director Jason Richards told the Hereford Times the company had already addressed concerns by letters sent directly to the town council and via Herefordshire Council, and explained staff could not attend for personal and professional reasons.

“We have done all the things the planners have asked us and on September 10 sent the town council a letter explaining everything fully because we couldn’t make it, and answered all their questions,” he said.

The plans follow a proposed £1.1 million library project in 2003 which collapsed amid access concerns, despite residents voting in its favour.