BADGERS could yet have a say in the future of a plan for five new houses in Stourport.

Wyre Forest District Council's planning (development control) committee has approved the bid by Timothy Smith homes to build the houses at the rear of The Firs on Bewdley Road, subject to English Nature's agreement.

But Worcestershire Badger Society fears for badgers using a "very active" sett on the site and claim the chances of the animals adopting an alternative artificial sett are "extremely remote".

Worcestershire Wildlife Trust says the badgers could become homeless if the houses are built as artificial setts are only occasionally used by them.

The matter will now be referred to English Nature which will decide whether the plan to create a new sett is acceptable.