A FIELD that could potentially become a care home if developers win on appeal has flooded.

The plan to build a 70-bed care home on land known as the 'Donkey Field', off Northwick Road in Worcester, went to appeal after Wychavon District Council took too long to decide.

Ciaran Power, head of development management for Wychavon District Council, said the council had received a late objection from the flooding authority, which raised various concerns for the site.

It led to the council taking longer than initially expected to decide.

Worcester News: The Donkey Field covered in water. The Donkey Field covered in water. (Image: Julia Kimberley)Heavy rainfall across the county has led to flooding in many areas in Worcestershire, including the Donkey Field, which has led to fresh calls from campaigners to stop the development. 

Mary Drinkwater, leader of the campaign group, said: "I think it's incredible we are still discussing building on a flood plain when it floods.

"It is common sense that it floods and will get worse.

"It should not be built on because of flooding."

The campaign group, called Save The Donkey Field, said they had done a flood report and sent it in with their objections.

Councillor Mel Allcott said: "If we keep building on areas, then there will be nowhere for the water to go.

"It will make the flooding worse.

"It is a great concern and has a big safety aspect to it. I think each year it is going to get worse for flooding."

She added that Worcester City Council had recommended the site for refusal when it was first submitted and in light of the appeal, has reinforced its rejection.

The land sits in Wychavon District Council, which said it will robustly defend its recommendation for refusal at appeal.

A statement on behalf of Northwick Developments Ltd and Landowners said: "Northwick Development has submitted an appeal against the failure of Wychavon District Council to determine the planning application for a care home which has been demonstrated to be required.

"The appeal is now in the process of being assessed by an independent Inspector who will take into account the information submitted by all parties across a wide range of matters in coming to a decision. 

"As such, it would be inappropriate to make any further comments at this stage of the appeal process."