PLANS to demolish Little Witley Garage and build two houses in its place have been approved, against the recommendation of Malvern Hills planning officers.

Little Witley Parish Council and neighbours of the derelict garage wanted to see the site developed, but planning officers wanted to prevent the loss of an employment site with potential benefit to the rural community.

Last month, the northern area planning committee indicated it was in favour of granting the application and a decision was deferred to allow time for it to be advertised as a departure from Local Plan policy.

There had been no objections by the time the committee met again last week and permission was granted, subject to no objections being received within two days.