PLANS to build a new housing estate on the historic Metal Box factory in Worcester have been given the green light by councillors.

Developer Taylor Wimpey was given the go-ahead for the scheme to build 215 houses at the site in Perry Wood Walk, which has become a derelict mess after Carnaud Metalbox, which used to make cans for some of the biggest names in the food and drink industry, closed down in 2013.

There were hopes from some that it could one day again become an industrial site - but these diminished when the site was allocated for housing in the South Worcestershire Development Plan (SWDP).

The proposal went before Worcester City Council's planning committee on Thursday, August 24, and was passed.

The scheme was for four one bedroom properties, 19 two bedroom properties, 126 three bedroom properties and 66 four bedroom properties.

When the original application was submitted, a number of residents objected on concerns over congestion.

London Road resident Margaret Carpenter, one of several objectors, said: "My objection is on the grounds of it not having the the right infrastructure in place - the roads are already congested."

But Taylor Wimpey has previously said £1.7 million would be pumped into improving the area, including measures to try and mitigate pressure on the roads.

Worcester MP Robin Walker said he welcomed the news the site had been given the go-ahead, particular after he put it among his long-term objections for the city after re-election earlier this year.

"It is certainly something I welcome," the MP said.

"It is an ideal location for housing - it makes sense as it is very central within the city.

"The city needs more family homes."

In a statement, a spokesman for Taylor Wimpey said: "Unfortunately, the terms of our commercial contract to acquire the land mean we are unable to discuss the matter."

In June, a spokesman for the firm told us: "The proposals will bring a number of benefits to the area and transform a derelict brownfield industrial site into attractive, much-needed new homes with landscaping and ecological enhancements, while also providing support to the local economy.

“While discussions are ongoing with the local authority in relation to specific financial contributions we will make as part of a Section 106 agreement, we expect payments will support local education, highway improvements and public open space at the very least.”

In June, our readers sent in pictures of their memories of the Metal Box factory, a couple of which are featured here.