Nine self-build homes proposed for village

Papers said the development would reflect local character and distinctiveness

Plans have been put forward for nine self-build homes in a Worcestershire village near the Herefordshire border.

The proposal is for nine homes plus landscaping on land next to Stocks Farm in Suckley.

An application to Malvern Hills District Council said the site had been allocated for housing and was suitable for up to 18 dwellings.

Self-build homes are defined by the government as projects covering a wide spectrum, from where individuals are involved in the construction of their home from beginning to end, to projects where individuals commission their home.

Papers submitted by planning agent The Rural Planning Co, in Hartlebury, said the plan was "an opportunity to offer a high-quality, eco-friendly and carbon-neutral highly sustainable design with architectural merit".

The company said the development would reflect local character and represent local distinctiveness.

Documents said the developer had consulted with villagers and with Suckley Parish Council.

Comments from neighbours came from Linda Connor, who said: "No more buildings, please. This is a lovely rural area; we need to keep our green spaces for the sake of the environment and for our mental and physical health."

She said: "There is too much building going on in our villages."

And Rebecca Southall raised concerns around a tall building that could overlook her garden as well as stormwater run-off.

However, she said the proposals were "appropriate in terms of the space available and the number of properties proposed".

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations.