DEVELOPERS have been given the go-ahead to build 92 new homes in Hartlebury, despite local opposition.

The new estate, to be a mixture of houses and bungalows, faced opposition from villagers and the local councillor.

However the plans were approved by Wychavon Dis-trict Council’s planning committee after members said they wanted to retain control of the development.

The proposed site of the new homes, off Old Worces-ter Road, is earmarked in the South Worcestershire Dev-elopment Plan for development – raising concerns among councillors that an appeal against a refusal would almost certainly be won by the applicant, Greenpath Ltd.

Phillip Roper, who lives in the village, said he spoke on behalf of about 450 people, all of whom are against the new homes.

He said: “Residents do not want large-scale development anywhere. They would prefer it to be spread across the village. Greenpath Ltd has not listened to the residents or the parish council.”

His views were backed by ward member Councillor Nigel Dowty, who listed problems with a new development in the village including blocked sewers and potentially overcrowded highways.

Councillor Tony Miller urged his fellow committee members to listen to people living in the area.

Despite their pleas other members said they could not refuse the application, which incorporates affordable, mar-ket and 10 per cent low-cost market housing.

Coun Adrian Darby said he sympathised but Wychavon council needed to build more homes across the district.

“We have identified this site in the South Worcester-shire Development Plan,” said Coun Darby.

“We have no chance of arguing there is somewhere better. I think it would be against the interests of the residents of Hartlebury to refuse this as we would lose the appeal and lose control.”

The committee approved the outline application with 13 members in support and one against.