AN application for 257 new homes on the edge of Worcester will place too much pressure on local infrastructure say local people.

The plans by Bloor Homes are still in the consultation process but people living near the proposed site say that the plans are being rushed through before the Localism Bill comes into force next year.

The proposals show the new development will be built on land next to Kilbury Drive, Whittington, and plans include new access from Walkers Lane, off Whittington Road, and Staplow Road, off Spetchley Road. Tim Jones, a member of the Spetchley Road Residents’ Group, said: “We feel there are many issues that need to be properly addressed.

“This many houses will put pressure on the local schools and the hospitals. The current infrastructure can’t really cope with the proposed amount of people.

“The developers have been a little bit underhand by putting it through before the Localism Bill comes into force. We would like some more interaction with the developers.”

The homes will include a proportion of affordable houses and provision for an open space with an equipped area of play and community allotments. Steve MacPherson, planning director for the western region of Bloor Homes, said: “We recognise it is a large proposal but we will be dealing with the infrastructure issues with the local authority.

“We recognise that the application is early against the SWDP but it will be consistent with the previous plans which have seen the site earmarked for development for the past three years. The application will deliver affordable homes and see investment into projects employing local people.”

Whittington Parish Council did not wish to comment on the proposals at this stage but will be discussing them at their next meeting being held on Tuesday, January 10.

District councillor for Whittington and vice-chairman of the planning committee Rob Adams said the application would be looked at fairly when it went before the committee.