RESIDENTS in the Littletons were meeting last night to co-ordinate a plan of action against the expansion of Kanes Foods.

Last month the controversial scheme for a six-acre extension to the huge food distribution and packing operation in Middle Littleton was accepted by Wychavon District Council, subject to approval by the Secretary of State.

The decision went against huge public opposition and the council's own planning policies.

Now villagers want to contact the Secretary of State directly to urge him to hold a public inquiry because they feel that Wychavon has let them down.

Villager Clive Shotten said: "Because of the way we have been treated we are meeting tonight to formulate a plan of action. We are planning to contact the Secretary of State directly to ask him to hold a public inquiry. We also want villagers who are against this expansion to write to the district council as soon as possible."

Six parish councils, including the Littletons, Badsey and Cleeve Prior had raised concerns over the development.

Villagers fear more traffic, waste disposal problems and the erosion of the countryside.

After the council meeting in April, head of planning for Wychavon Gill Collin said: "This development is one that wouldn't be allowed in open countryside but the economic dependency of the company in the Vale of Evesham has to be taken into account."

Speaking yesterday she said: "We are obliged to inform the Secretary of State because this is a departure from our planning policies. We will be sending a report to the Secretary of State which will include objections we received from villagers." She said any additional comments should be sent to her at Wychavon District Council, by May 12. She added: "If anyone has difficulty meeting the deadline they should contact me and we will try to be as flexible as we can."