A WORCESTER schoolgirl concerned about the impact of a proposed development near her home in Warndon Villages put pen to paper to write to Prince Charles about her concerns – and got a response.

Worried about the potential impact on the environment of the planning application by technology firm GTech for a new 2,915 sq metre headquarters on land off the junction of Berkeley Way and Parsonage Way, seven-year-old Mya Walford decided to write the Prince of Wales telling him about her concerns.

And the year three pupil at RGS The Grange in Claines was surprised to get a personal reply from the Prince’s office.

Mum Jot said Mya had been particularly worried about the impact on great crested newts living in the area, which is close to the 900-year-old Grade I listed St Nicholas Church, if the application was granted and wanted to see if there was anything Princes Charles could do.

“She was really excited because she doesn’t get a lot of post,” she said. “And then she noticed the stamp which showed where it was from.

“He (Prince Charles) has been quite supportive – in the letter he gave us details of The Prince’s Regeneration Trust and told us to contact them.”

The Prince’s Regeneration Trust works to protect and maintain listed buildings across the country as well as finding new ways to utilise them.

Headteacher at The Grange Gareth Hughes applauded Mya for getting involved in her community.

“This is an extraordinary achievement for such a young child,” he said.

“I am delighted to see this proactive approach to matters which are important to Mya.

“In light of the forthcoming elections, it is refreshing to see Mya taking a political stance and looking after the future of our locality.”

The application for the £5 million office, research facility and storage space has caused a great deal of concern among residents Warndon Villages, with some claiming they were not given enough time to have their say on the plans.

Although GTech has organised its own public consultation at the Lyppard Grange Community Centre in Ankerage Green from 1.30pm until 4.30pm on Saturday, April 18, a group of residents are planning on picketing the event between 2pm and 4pm.

The company’s chief executive Nick Gray – who will be on hand at Saturday’s drop-in session – said he was keen to ensure everyone who wanted to make their voice heard had the chance and has asked for the decision on the application to be delayed until after the event.

“We will try, wherever possible to be guided by local opinion when shaping our planning application and see Saturday as a time to meet anyone concerned as well as those who support the application,” he said.

“I welcome all their views.”

A spokesman from the company said it would report back to residents with any changes made following their feedback in May.

To view the plans visit www.worcester.gov.uk and search for application P15P0013.