WELLAND residents fear a business development could ruin the village and put lives at risk.

The Little Malvern Estate Trust wants permission to convert eight disused farm buildings at Wood Farm, Marlbank Road, for commercial, industrial and distribution use.

At least five villagers have objected and a flyer has been circulated urging others to do the same.

The biggest fear is that increased traffic will make roads dangerous for children in the village. There are also concerns about increased noise and a negative impact on the area's appearance.

Guy and Annie Dixon, of Holdfast Cottage, a bed and breakfast overlooking the site, said they were concerned for the safety of their two children, who go to school in the village.

"With 40-tonne lorries passing all day the village could become a death trap," said Mr Dixon.

Mr Dixon also fears his business will suffer, as four of his guest rooms overlook the site.

"It certainly won't make for a nice quiet stay in the Malvern Hills," he said. "We're supposed to be in an area of outstanding natural beauty and that's hardly going to be enhanced by this."

Welland Pre-school chairman Sarah Husband said parents felt strongly.

"This is of grave concern to parents, the safety of their children is paramount," she said. "I'm all for development, but not when it involves lorries passing outside a school 24 hours a day."

Steve Egford, of agent Strutt and Parker, said it was not viable in the long term for the buildings to remain unused.

He said the site would be used by a number of "low key" companies, such as printers or mechanics, that would not significantly increase traffic.

Worcestershire County Council environmental services director John Hobbs' assessment supports this.

"Traffic generation is considered low and would not compromise the safe movement and free flow of traffic," his report states.