Parking and privacy concerns over plans for former British Legion

Badsey and Aldington Parish Council is among those to have objected to a planning application submitted by Highbury Design.

The plan, from Highbury Design, would see the former private member’s club, which closed down last summer,  knocked down and replaced with nine apartments.

Andrea Evans, parish clerk, said: “There is inadequate parking provision for nine new dwellings which could push vehicles out onto High Street and Synehurst as well as other congested side roads.

“There is inadequate outdoor amenities such as garages and storage.

“There is inadequate green open space for this site It is unclear whether these units are for sale or rent.”

The rear of the existing building (Image: Google Maps)

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Several neighbours have also submitted objections, many citing parking, privacy and sewage as concerns.

Tillia Bostock who lives in the neighbouring Manorside estate said: “This would ultimately disturb the currently very quiet and reserved neighbourhood which we were all content with when moving to this specific area.”

Synehurst resident Trevor Burton added: “There will not be enough parking spaces provided and parking would overspill onto nearby roads.

“The sewage system surrounding the area is inadequate.

“The houses/maisonettes in the area are already susceptible to flooding and blocked drainage.

“The proposed building would cause more issues.”

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The Badsey Royal British Legion has stood empty since it closed down last summer following nine years in operation.

Highbury Design’s co-founder, Gary Phillips, says the property has “fallen into disrepair” since and believes that their plans will have many benefits for the area.

In the planning application submitted to Wychavon District Council, the building is described as being “poorly developed” with additions and alterations which are “out of keeping with the vernacular of the area”.

As such, the proposals are intended to fit in with the surrounding area, with matching red brickwork and tiles.

“In this way, the paraphernalia of the current status quo will be tidied up, whilst the footprint of the new building will be significantly smaller at 355sqm against 405sqm,” it reads.

“Its demise has no effect on community resources or facilities.

“The replacement of the building will however create a far more coherent street scene in this part of the High Street of Badsey, particular linking the adjacent residential language of the street together.”

The plans also include a car park featuring a disabled space and electric 7KW vehicle charging.

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Not all are against the plans, however.

Jamie Thomas of Main Street, Aldington, said: “Great proposal, just what the village needs, gives the younger generation at chance to get on the property ladder without leaving the village.”