Committee to decide on 'eyesore' housing plan

Plans for 200 homes on the edge of Malvern that residents fear will be an "eyesore" are set to be decided by councillors.

A Malvern Hills District Council planning committee will consider the reserved matters application for the Cales Farm development on land off Broadlands Drive on Wednesday.

Some residents fear the development could affect views from the Malvern Hills - an example of a "precious nationally-important landscape" that only exists if protected.

Developer Barratt Homes said its plan is "landscape-led and complements the existing area".

Outline planning permission was granted in October 2024 but Barratt Homes must secure approval for the detailed plans before work can begin.

The proposed development would include 200 homes, including 80 affordable properties, ranging from two to five bedrooms.

According to the developer, the site would include 7.3 hectares of public open space, including a new play area.

The plans have faced opposition from residents who have said the development would bring "yet more housing, noise and litter" to the area.

Concerns have also been raised about highway safety and the potential impact on traffic on Sayers Avenue, which would provide access to the development.

Residents have warned the development would be an "eyesore... and would impact the natural beauty of this area".

A Barratt Homes spokesperson said: "It's important to us that residents can continue to enjoy the surrounding environment."

The reserved matters application is recommended for approval but the final decision will be made by committee members.

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

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