A CONTROVERSIAL plan to double the size of Upton-upon-Severn Marina and create a holiday village on the outskirts of the town is to be scrutinised by district councillors.

The proposals sparked more than 100 letters to Malvern Hills District Council's planning department from local residents objecting to the scheme, as well as a 104-name petition.

Planning officer David Murray outlined the plans at last night's Southern Area Planning Committee and urged councillors to visit the site before making a decision.

"Members will see there is widespread objection to the development from local residents, particularly from Holly Green and Ryall.

"In the light of the scale and diversity of local opinion and as a critical element of the council's decision will be an assessment of the visual and physical impact of the development, it is considered appropriate that members have a site visit prior to a detailed discussion."

The scheme is in three parts. The first includes expanding the water basin into Fowlers Meadow to create an extra 120 mooring spaces, the second is the development of about 60 holiday apartments in a crescent shape adjacent to the existing marina along with space for a rowing/sailing clubhouse and storage.

The third element is the development of about 45 holiday lodges on open land rising to the east. Major concerns include the impact on the rural area and on the floodplain, the increase in traffic and that the development will completely fill open land between Ryall and Upton.

The council has also received 15 letters of support.

Councillors are to visit the site on Monday, December 2.