Plans to build four terraced houses behind a pub have been submitted to Braintree Council.

Greene King hope to get permission for two three-bedroom and two two-bedroom homes on a largely unused garden area behind The Rifleman on Rifle Hill, Braintree.

Previous plans to demolish the pub and build one detached and four terraced homes were refused by the council in January.

The latest application, submitted on behalf of Greene King by Caldecotte Consultants, would see the pub, its patio area and parking for six cars retained.

A design and access statement reads: “It is not felt that the loss of the garden would have a detrimental impact on the viability of the pub.”

It adds: “When proposing a part site development it is crucial to ensure that the development does not impact on the viability of the public house.

“This scheme has been designed so that the pub business can still provide for the local community.”