A HERITAGE sight has been saved from the threat of redevelopment.

Plans submitted in March to build six new bungalows in a walled garden at Croome Court, near Upton, have now been withdrawn -- to the relief of those who objected to the development, including the National Trust, English Heritage and several local residents.

The Grade I listed building is privately owned by Lawrence Bilton, but nearby Croome Park is National Trust property.

Mr Bilton's agent, Michael Lapworth, was not available to explain the decision.

Malvern Hills District Council's senior planning officer Simon Jones said applicants did not have to reveal the reasons for withdrawing an application, but said it may be to do with an objection from English Heritage.

National Trust spokesman Ben Shipston had been concerned about the impact on Croome Court and the wider environment.

"We're pleased to hear that the application has been withdrawn," he said. "We believe the proposed development would have ruined the walled garden at Croome Court, an important historical feature of the estate."

In April this year, a National Trust bid to buy the £2.25million property was unsuccessful.