A BATTLE has been won by residents in St John's campaigning to stop a controversial housing development.

Worcester city councillors voted against allowing two 1930s semi-detached houses in Malvern Road to be demolished and replaced by 23 homes, including two apartment blocks and six detached houses.

But yesterday's victory came with a warning from developers that they intend to appeal against the decision.

"I'm never very impressed by threats of public inquiries from developers and, in fact, I would welcome a public inquiry because this is a very important application and test case for the whole of Worcester," said Coun Barrie Mackenzie-Williams.

At a previous committee, when members said they were minded to refuse the scheme, a petition, signed by 268 St John's residents opposed to the proposal, was submitted.

Yesterday, councillors voted against the plans by eight to four.