PLANS to build 99 new homes and community sports pitches at Kempsey, near Worcester, have won the approval of councillors.

The application, made by Taylor Wimpey (West Midlands) Ltd, calls for the homes and the pitches to be built on land off Pixham Ferry Lane and Old Road South in the village.

It originally came before Malvern Hills district councillors in April, but with the difference that 113 houses were proposed.

At that meeting, members resolved to defer consideration of the application to give the applicant a chance to reduce the number of dwellings.

The updated application was supported by Kempsey Parish Council, which saw it as the best way to secure the sports pitches and community facilities for the village.

But some local residents voiced objections to the scheme. They feared that potential congestion and safety issues arising from the increased use of Old Road South and Pixham Ferry Lane.

The scheme was welcomed by local members David Harrison and John Michael, who proposed and seconded the motion to approve the plan.

Cllr Harrison said: "I believe that all items of the scheme are fully compliant with the South Worcestershire Development Plan and the local neighbourhood plan."

Members voted 10-0 in favour of the plan, with one abstention.