Plans to build up to 800 homes on Green Belt land on the edge of Worcester have been met with a mixed response.
Claines councillors came out fighting against the proposals for Church Farm in Cornmeadow Lane, saying the development is “not welcome.”
But while some residents agree the site should be kept as farmland, others say the city is in desperate need of more housing.
BACKING: Former city councillor James Stanley says the Claines councillors are representing their residents (Image: Liberal Democrats)
Summix is promoting plans for the development on a 48-hectare site between Ombersley Road and Droitwich Road.
The land is being promoted as having the capacity for between 650 and 800 homes, with future plans expected to include a school, shops, and public open spaces.
The developer is holding pre-application discussions with planning officers and is expected to submit a formal application later in the year.
Lib Dem councillors Mel Allcott, Jesse Jagger, and Karen Holmes came out against the scheme.
Former city councillor James Stanley said: “Delighted as a former Claines councillor to endorse the principled position of the Lib Dem councillors.
“Anyone who has talked to Claines residents over the years is aware of the scale of opposition to this.
“Mel, Jesse, and Karen are simply representing their residents – not for the first time either.”
But one reader said: “The NIMBY party strikes again.
“Lib Dem policy is to build hundreds of thousands of affordable homes. Just as long as they are somewhere else.
“If you want thousands of new houses, they have to go somewhere. This just looks like a logical expansion of Worcester up to the ring road.”
Benjamin Lloyd said “homes are badly required” and “have to be built somewhere,” but Clare Joanne said: “What a shame! No to new housing,” adding that there is “plenty of old which could be redeveloped.”
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Paul Hooper said: “Please get on and build these houses as soon as possible.
“Millions need a roof over their heads. This city too would benefit with fresh new occupants. What’s not to like?
“This is a great move forward that we are fortunate to have on our doorstep.”
Another resident said the site is “a beautiful area with a fishing pond, always being farmed with people working and picking the crops.
“We must keep farm land for growing our own food and totally support any rejection of the plans.”
