Appeal lodged after affordable housing rejected

The housing would link up with existing properties on Furrow Close, Holly Green

An application to build an affordable housing development turned down by councillors, with one saying it would stick out like a sore thumb, has gone to appeal.

Plans to build 25 homes on fields off Ryall Road in Holly Green near Upton upon Severn, Worcestershire, were in November rejected by members of Malvern Hills District Council, some of whom complained it would lead to loss of farmland.

But their decision came despite council planning officers recommending the scheme for approval, saying it would help address a lack of affordable housing across the district.

Developer Hamelin Partnerships has since lodged an appeal, meaning a decision on the scheme now rests in the hands of a planning inspector.

In its appeal, Hamelin says the site "represents a suitable location" for the development, and there is local need for the housing.

It argues that the proposed building plot is not classed as "best and most versatile agricultural land" – the type of land Natural England says should be protected from significant, inappropriate or unsustainable development.

The proposed homes, which would include a mix of one, two, three and four-bed properties, would link up with existing new-builds in Furrow Close, Holly Green.

Eight of the homes would be shared equity and 17 would be offered at affordable rent.

There would be a total of 48 parking spaces for the 25 homes, plus cycle storage for apartments and maisonettes.

Upton councillor Martin Allen said the houses would "stick out like a sore thumb".