Two supermarket chains have been dealt a blow in their bid to open new stores in one of Birmingham most historic shopping areas.
Separate plans from and Co-op to open new stores at The Green, in were both refused by councillors, in a bid to protect a much-valued conservation area.
Sainsbury's wanted to put a convenience store on the front car park of the Navigation pub but councillors decided the site was not large enough for both businesses - with particular safety concerns over the space for delivery lorries.
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Meanwhile, plans to convert a run down 1930s shopping parade on Pershore Road opposite into a store were rejected because the designs were too contemporary for the historic centre.
member Coun Peter Griffiths (Lab Kings Norton) said of the Sainsbury's store: "Delivery vehicles would park between the pub and the shop. It's not possible for that to happen. This plan should not be supported."
He also criticised the pub's owner, Spirit Group, over its determination to sell or develop the site as this is the second time a supermarket has been proposed.
The councillor instead suggested that the company supported the pub.
Coun Peter Douglas Osborn (Con Weoley), who used to use the pub with the Kings Norton Rugby Club, added: "The roundabout here is one of the most congested in south Birmingham, the last thing it needs is another store."
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Committee members were more sympathetic to plans for a Co-op store opposite on Pershore Road but were scathing of the design which is out of keeping with an area which has a history going back to medieval times.
Coun Barry Henley (Lab Brandwood) also called for the protection of a pair of sturdy semi-detached houses which had been proposed for demolition.
He said: "The proposal looks so mismatched, it is so wholly inappropriate and should be refused."
Will Charlton, speaking on behalf of the Co-op developer Central Midlands Estates, said the firm was willing to reconsider the design in the light of the planning refusal.