THE battle to stop flats being built at the former Beehive pub site in Poole is not over yet.

Behind closed doors councillors decided evening to go ahead with another legal challenge against the scheme.

And the crux of their argument is to ensure that a "reasonable number" of affordable homes are built in Oakdale as part of the agreement.

The Beehive in Lilliput was demolished three years ago despite protests from residents who wanted to save the 19th century hostelry.

Developer Churchill Retirement Living intends to create 50 sheltered housing flats in its place and, as part of the deal, also build 20 affordable flats and three shops at a former garage site in Wimborne Road, Oakdale.

But the number of affordable houses has become an issue with the council.

Spencer McCarthy, of Churchill Retirement Living, believes the fuss is over just three more flats.

He is warning that taxpayers in the borough might end up with a bill for £50,000 if the council loses its case.

"Only 10 per cent of High Court challenges are won. It will be a shame if taxpayers have to pay up because of a few people's decision," he said.

"There is a requirement to provide a maximum of 40 per cent affordable housing, which for us would be 28 units. We are providing 20 and three shop units.

"We are also paying £230,000 which covers the cost of providing five more units elsewhere, so this is all about three more units," Mr McCarthy added.

A government inspector has already turned down a council appeal against the Beehive project.

Mr Spencer said: "There will be no further negotiations with the council. We are not going to be held to ransom."

Borough of Poole planning committee has agreed to challenge the planning inspector's decision following legal advice from a barrister.

First published: October 23