TRAFFIC concerns have been raised over a plan to build 17 new homes on vacant land in Lye.

Ruskin Properties Limited is seeking planning permission to build a mix of three-bedroom houses and townhouses on land to the west of Hickman Street, off Timmis Road and Bagley Street in Lye.

Neighbouring businesses and residents, however, have expressed concerns the proposal will only worsen the area's existing traffic problems.

A design and access statement giving details of the planning application on Dudley Council's planning website describes the proposed residential development as "an architecturally exciting new build scheme that is inspired by place and local identity" .

It says the scheme would provide "new quality living accommodation that respects the setting, meets local needs and will be a welcome addition to the housing stock" and adds that the proposed three-bedroom units "take into account the housing needs of the local area and will serve to enliven and strengthen the existing community".

The document says the proposal "seeks to release the site’s development potential and create a new, high quality, residential environment sitting harmoniously with the existing housing and commercial uses".

A number of businesses in Timmis Road have, however, lodged objections to the plan - saying they fear it will generate too much extra traffic in an already busy industrial area, leading to heavier congestion and potential accidents.

Business bosses also fear potential complaints from future residents of the proposed new development over the noise and traffic associated with their long-standing companies.

A number of residents in Bagley Street have also lodged objections - saying the street "cannot cope with any more additional traffic to add to this already busy and dangerous road".

The Coal Authority has also called for investigatory work to be carried out ahead of any development beginning as two historic mine shafts have been identified within the site.

Ruskin Properties did not wish to comment on the application.