Council overturns decision on housebuilder’s development plans

Lockley Homes has welcomed Worcester City Council’s decision to overturn the December decision of its planning committee to refuse permission for its proposed development in Malvern Road.

Councillors originally refused permission for Lockley Homes proposed development of three, three bedroom bungalows and six two bed apartments.

As the decision went against planning officers’ recommendations, the January planning committee took a second look and decided that there were insufficient grounds for refusal.

Planning officers had advised that it would be difficult to fight an appeal as the reasons for refusal were not strong enough.

The plan for Malvern Road involves the demolition of the existing property known as Mayfield and development on that site plus the garden area.

Lockley Homes land director Ian O’Gorman said: “During the debate several councillors commented that it was a ‘good scheme’, ‘well designed’ and looked like ‘a nice place to live’ – and we agree.”

Joint managing director Karl Lockley said that Lockley Homes would now proceed on site as soon as details were finalised and he thanked those local residents who had supported the scheme.

“The proof of the pudding, as they say, and I think local residents will ultimately welcome what we believe is a tasteful scheme and in keeping with the neighbourhood.”