The document consists of 16 pages. The actual decision, including the evidence for it, takes up two pages – the relevant information probably only just over one. The rest is mainly planning conditions. The only question before the inspector was the impact on green space under Policy SWDP 38 B(i) of the South Worcestershire Development Plan.

Development is allowed for community/recreational use which doesn’t compromise the green space’s essential quality and character.

The council didn’t dispute that the plans were for community/recreation. So the only disputed point was the effect on the area’s character.

The planning inspector decided that a) views would not be affected much and the area already has a leisure character; b) the county council did not object on highway grounds, so the inspector could say nothing on this; and c) the council raised no objection about noise. And that is about it. The appeal inspector did not have a hard task.

The appeal document is an easy read. I would urge Cllr Stephen, and indeed all councillors, to look at the evidence it contains. Ironically, the Greens’ opportunistic politics, disregarding any evidence, won them the St Stephen Ward seat from Gareth Jones who always openly and honestly campaigned for the site to remain a wholly green space.

Planning chairman, Cllr Mitchell’s request for the club to submit a comprehensive business case is reasonable. The city council cannot simply hand over the site because it is for a ‘good cause.’ But councillors who have hitherto opposed the club’s plans need to argue, on the evidence, why they think a ground is not suitable.

At present they can hide behind Councillor Stephen’s repeated unwise comments. But they cannot hide forever.  

Francis Lankester

Worcester