TWO planning applications totalling over 100 homes for Kempsey, near Worcester, will be going before planners in the new year.

David Wilson Homes (Mercia) Ltd wants to build 75 houses on land off Post Office Lane, and Lioncourt Homes up to 31 dwellings on land at Kings Hill.

Both plans are on the agenda when the Malvern Hills District Council northern area development control committee on Wednesday, January 7.

And both plans are being recommended for approval by the council's planning officers.

145 residents of Kempsey have signed a petition opposing the Post Office Lane proposal, which has been submitted to the council. Dozens of individual letters of objection have also been received, and a strong objection from Kempsey Parish Council.

Among the ground for objections are highway safety, flooding, inadequate infrastructure, loss of village character and identity and the impact on wildlife.

The site is also not earmarked for development in the South Worcestershire Development Plan, or in the emerging Neighbourhood Plan.

The Kings Hill site is also opposed by the parish council, with ten letters from residents also voicing opposition.

Flood risk is among the main reasons, with the parish council saying the site, next to the Upper Ham, floods regularly. Access through narrow Windmill Lane is also a concern, with the parish council describing it as an "accident waiting to happen".

According to residents, the site is also a popular place for villagers and visitors to enjoy panoramic views and take photographs across the River Severn and towards the Malvern Hills, especially when there are spectacular sunsets or extensive flooding.

The meeting is at 6pm at the Council Chamber, Avenue Road, Malvern.