NEW plans for the controversial Runnings Park site in West Malvern have been submitted to Malvern Hills District Council.

The latest scheme for the former hotel in Croft Bank is to convert it into 15 dwellings, with a community centre and children's play area. The community centre would include an internet room, site office, meeting room and toilet.

In August, MHDC planners rejected a plan for 18 dwellings, but gave applicants Coxley Developments a clear indication that a revised plan for 15 was likely to be accepted.

This week, members of West Malvern Parish Council were sceptical about the new plan, particularly the community centre.

Coun Colin Jackson said: "It does sound as if they're almost talking about a managed estate. It's a totally different concept. I would want to know a lot more about it."

Chairman Joyce Roberts said she wondered if the developers were planning a holiday camp or time-share apart- ments.

"If so, it will mean more and more traffic," she said.

District councillor John Raine said: "We took the decision to reject the application for 18 residential units, but the provision of a community centre was not something that was discussed with developers."

He said the new plans would need to be looked at as a new issue.

"I would be very unhappy if we made a decision without hearing the opinions from all sides," he said.

Plans to develop Runnings Park for housing have aroused a lot of local opposition. Among the issues raised are the impact of the development on local roads and facilities, and its effect on the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Residents hope to set up a meeting with district council representatives to discuss the latest plan.