A DECISION on Upton's proposed new medical centre is due next week, with planners recommending approval.

Malvern Hills District Council's planning officers say in their report that permission should be granted, but the applicants should provide funds for relevant highway alterations and a bus service within the catchment area.

Members of the council's southern area planning sub-committee will meet on Wednesday to discuss the proposal.

A final decision was put off at last month's meeting to allow committee members a chance to view the site for themselves.

The application was submitted by Dr George Wilson and colleagues, of the existing Upton Surgery. The new centre at Tunnel Hill would house GP consulting rooms, nurses rooms, an optician, dispensary, dental practice, a child health centre and a physiotherapy centre.

The planning department has received 43 letters of support from Upton residents and eight objecting.

Supporters say the new central location of the surgery within its catchment area is an improvement, and that its relocation would relieve congestion caused by the present surgery in School Lane.

But objectors say the building would be too prominent on the scenery and prone to flooding, and that other sites initially considered would be more appropriate.

Council planning officers rejected the other potential sites, saying the current plan is providing "the best balance of proximity and least planning constraints".

They were satisfied that the development would fit in with the landscape and meet the Highway Authority's requirements in terms of road safety.

The meeting is at Priory Lodge Hall, Avenue Road, Malvern, at 7pm and is open to the public.