CRITICS of a modern home in a rural Worcestershire village have vowed to continue their campaign to have the villa bulldozed.

Since retired doctors Michael and Marjorie Cox built their own "dream home" in the pretty village of Wick, near Pershore, neighbours have lodged complaints about the "hideous" design.

Three ombudsmen reports have dismissed the complaints. The last study, in November, found there had been technical "maladministration" in the planning process, as Wychavon District Council did not publicise the Cox's application.

Tonight, a full council meeting will vote on recommendations to pay £500 compensation to one complainant, Edward McMillan-Scott, if he agrees in writing to call an end to the long-running saga.

"It's the Government's Ombudsman's decision to offer the money and end the matter," said the council's managing director, Jack Hegarty.

"I hope that tonight we can end the acrimony in the village and look forward."

However, Mr McMillan-Scott, MEP for Yorkshire and the Humber, who lives in a listed building 250 yards away from the Cox's house, said objectors will not give up.

"We will pursue our rights," he said. "This case is going to Whitehall.

"Planning law affecting conservation areas or listed buildings like ours must be upheld.

"The new house blocks historic views into and out of Wick. Wychavon made a big mistake."

The couple won planning permission to build the modern-style villa, designed by their architect son, David Cox, in March 2003.

Nearby residents, who claim the "hideous" design spoils the conservation area and scenery, have been campaigning to overturn Wychavon District Council's decision for almost two years.

Marjorie Cox said the couple, who have lived in Wick for 16 years, had tried to keep out of the debate.

"It's a lovely, lovely house and we are privileged to live in it," she said. "We just try and keep out of the discussions and enjoy our home."