BOSSES at a leading property development firm are crossing their fingers that it is third time lucky for their plans for a disused rubber factory

BOSSES at a leading property development firm are crossing their fingers that it is third time lucky for their plans for a disused rubber factory.McCarthy & Stone's application to build 58 homes for the elderly on the former Fussells site in Station Road, Worle, was refused at North Somerset Council's west area committee in November. Previously a decision had been deferred.But now the company has resubmitted a new planning application which includes more affordable housing units and one more car parking space. The new plans are for 33 one-bedroomed and 12 two-bedroomed apartments, two less than in the original scheme.A total of 13 affordable housing units are included, as well 20 car parking spaces.Previously, councillors had raised concerns over a lack of community facilities, like a library, in the plans and letters of objection had been sent to North Somerset Council outlining opposition to diverting a cycle route through Oakdale Gardens.A McCarthy & Stone spokesman said: "We are confident that all the design issues have been addressed, including the provision of an existing cyclepath, more car parking spaces, and an increase in the number of affordable units. "All that remains is an agreement on a cash contribution to local amenities. The new application will, we hope, allow this to be resolved."The former rubber factory has become a magnet for youths who have been starting fires and causing vandalism at the site since its closure in September 2005. If the new development, which would also include manager's accommodation and communal facilities, gets the go-ahead, the affordable housing flats would be separate from the other apartments.Once a North Somerset planning officer has checked all the information the application will be officially registered with the local authority.