CONTROVERSIAL plans to build 15 affordable houses in a village near Worcester are likely to be turned down for the second time.

Evesham and Pershore Housing Association have resubmitted proposals for the homes on O'Keys Farm, off Agatha Gardens, on the edge of Fernhill Heath.

However planning officers have recommended Wychavon District Council refuses the scheme once again because of 'substandard' access and road safety measures.

The previous application was refused in October last year on the grounds that a bend in the road meant visibility was too poor for motorists.

Case officer Fran Juckes has raised similar concerns this time.

She said: "The layout of Agatha Gardens does not accord with the county council's policy for new developments with regard to alignment and forward visibility.

"The increased use of this

substandard road in connection with the proposed development would therefore be unacceptable and may result in dangers to

road users."

The lack of street lighting near proposed traffic calming measures and the lack of public open space for the residents of the dwellings were also cited as stumbling blocks.

Residents were also unhappy with the plans and the district council received 52 letters and

e-mails objecting to the scheme.

The proposals are for two-storey houses and flats, near an existing farmhouse, in a green belt area. All the properties are designed to reflect and fit in with the rural setting.

A total of 28 car parking spaces are also planned for the 15 homes.

Wychavon District Council's development control committee was due to consider the plans today at a meeting at the Civic Centre, in Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore.