PERSHORE looks set to expand by 132 homes after planning permission was agreed for a new housing development off Three Springs Road, despite a request to defer it.

During a development control committee meeting last Thursday, Pershore town councillor Peter Merry asked Wychavon councillors to delay the application by Bloor Homes until more information was provided.

He said: “I speak on behalf of the town council. We have concerns relating to the cemetery, and lack of clarity about footways.

“Housing density, at 30 dwellings per hectare, far exceeds other developments and assessments show it falls far short of quality housing.

“We also have concerns about the development’s impact on the junction at Three Springs Road and fear it could lead to increased congestion.”

However, fellow Pershore councillor John Grantham, who also sits on the Wychavon committee, shot down Coun Merry’s claims he was speaking for the town council when he proposed the plans should be accepted.

After applauding the developers for amending its original application of 162 homes, Coun Grantham said: “Since May, when this application was first refused, Bloor Homes have done a lot to bring it back as an acceptable application. It’s clear they are keen to cooperate and get this right.

“It provides more houses for our five year land supply and in the long term will be of benefit to the town. I move approval.”

Another Pershore town councillor, Charles Tucker, drew attention to the provision of 40 affordable homes which he described as “a considerable contribution to the area”.

Steve McPherson, on behalf of Bloor Homes, confirmed that housing density had been significantly reduced from the original plans and that a ‘buffer zone’ would be placed around Pershore Cemetery to ensure it remained secluded, adding: “We are absolutely committed to bringing in a quality development.”

Worcestershire County Council’s highways department said the introduction of an extra lane in Three Springs Road would lessen the impact of any possible congestion.