A Government planning inspector was greeted by more than twenty residents in Albert Road on Tuesday, some of whom waved notices and placards.

Developer Barry Connally has appealed against Herefordshire Council's refusal of planning permission for 12 new homes and an access road off the street.

Albert Road residents have fought a long campaign against the development.

Coun Peter Watts, chairman of planning for Ledbury Town Council, said that, in his view, the inspector's decision could go either way.

But he said he hoped the inspector would recommend sweeping changes to the planning application.

Coun Watts said he was particularly concerned over the access to Albert Road, which is a narrow Victorian street without pavements.

He added that even without the development being built, there had been cases of emergency vehicles, such as ambulances and fire engines, having difficulty gaining access to the street.

Residents have expressed fears the proposed development would lead to more cars.

Mr Connally was present at the site inspection and offered to talk to concerned residents before any development takes place.