FIREFIGHTERS were called out to tackle a blaze at a dilapidated bungalow.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service received a call just before 4.20pm on Wednesday reporting a blaze at a disused building off Old Hall Street, Malpas.

Three fire crews attended the scene - one each from Chester, Audlem and Shropshire.

A fire and rescue service spokesman said: "Firefighters are in attendance at an disused bungalow which is well alight. Crews are using one hose reel and two breathing apparatus. Three jets are also in use.”

An eyewitness said by 6.30pm the blaze had been extinguished but firefighters remained at the scene damping down.

Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWaC) planning committee have rejected two planning applications for The Cedars site. Both applications involved demolishing The Cedars and associated outbuildings.

One application for 27 retirement living apartments communal facilities, landscaping and car parking, which had been opposed by Malpas Parish Council and turned down by the CWaC planning committee, was refused on appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.

A similar proposal for 21 properties was also refused permission by the CWaC planners.