ANGRY residents in Barbourne, Worcester, have set up an action group to oppose plans which would see three houses demolished to make way for retirement flats.

Homeowners in Sunnyside Road believe the proposed development would not only ruin the visual aspect of the road, increase traffic and cause parking chaos, but would also encroach into the flood plain along Barbourne Brook, increasing the local flood risk.

Developer McCarthy and Stone, which has yet to submit a planning application to Worcester City Council, plans to replace the detached houses with high-density apartments.

Resident and member of the action group Richard Coopey said one of the houses which could be demolished was often referred to as the nicest house in the street.

"It is a wonderful example of a 1920s or 1930s Arts and Crafts architecture and although we don't think it's 'listable' we are going to see if this is a possibility," he said.

"We believe this proposed development would destroy the character of the street, as well as being right on the flood plain. It's mad and makes no sense at all."

Worcester MP Mike Foster, who is also chair of the All Party Flood Prevention Group in the Commons, has also expressed opposition to the plans.

"Worcester planners should give a resounding no to this development," he said.

"It will change the area forever and not for the better - it will mean the loss of green spaces and mature trees, destroying a house with character and history and importantly, put at risk many homes through increasing the likelihood of flooding."

"If planners give this the go ahead, then we have learnt nothing from the floods in 1998.

"I want them to give a signal now to these developers - thanks, but no thanks. Then the local residents can get on with their lives not worrying about what might happen to their neighbourhood."