DEVELOPERS may go some way towards meeting concerns over the loss of open space to a major housing scheme in Malvern Link.

Bristol-based Mason Richards, agents for the Madresfield estate, says it wants to carry out a public consultation exercise on detailed options for around 12 acres at the Lower Howsell Allotment Site.

The Town Council's planning and transportation committee heard that the developers were prepared to offer the Town Council a Section 106 agreement, legally binding them to criteria such as setting aside land as public open space.

Town councillors have agreed to help organise an exhibition of the proposals, possibly at Dyson Perrins CE High School, and provide advice and assistance with the public consultation exercise. The cost will be met by Mason Richards.

This is the first time the Town Council has been approached in this way by a developer and clerk Stuart McDonough said it was a recognition of the importance of its role. It was noted that the Council's help in the consultation exercise was not an indication that it in any way supported the proposals.

Bovis Homes, of Cheltenham, submitted planning application to redevelop the allotment site last year but this has yet to be considered by the planning authority. As this is was an outline application, there were no details of the number or type of houses proposed.

More than 100 letters of objection were lodged. Malvern Town Council and Worcestershire County's Council's highways department also objected.

Mason Richards' approach represents the first chance for residents to see a detailed scheme.