Residents split over plan for 50 homes and village hall

Space for a village hall is included in plans for up to 50 homes in Bretforton.

But not all residents are convinced that one is needed.

The proposal from Pegasus Group follows a number of other large planned developments for Evesham, Honeybourne and Badsey.

The latest plans would see dozens of homes built on land off New Street and Honeybourne Road.

The developer has included land reserved for a village hall in its plan as well as children’s play areas and other green space.

It says the development “will be a highly desirable place to live for the 21st century and beyond, reflecting the desirable elements of the local vernacular”.

“The proposals respect the local character but also move the community towards a more sustainable future, through a significant increase in housing choice.

“The proposal will deliver an attractive and sustainable addition to the village of Bretforton.

“A landscape-dominated new place to live, work and play, taking inspiration from the surroundings as well as recognising new approaches to urban design and master planning.”

But neighbours have concerns.

Helen Hughes said: “In my opinion this seems a poor choice of land to build on, With flooding happening regularly on the Honeybourne Road on one side and then you have busy stretch of road to the other, I feel this isn’t a sensible location to be increasing traffic.

“I’m also concerned that the school will not cope with a potential 50 family homes being built in the area when it is nearly at full capacity already.

“Finally I do not see any benefit to being allocated space to build a new village hall.”

And NJ Witts said: “Although I broadly support this application I am in no doubt that a new pedestrian crossing would be needed allowing residents to safely cross the main road which runs through the village to access village amenities.

“This should be paid for by the developer and not the residents of Bretforton.

“I note that this is a possible site for a new village hall. This in my view is totally unneeded.”

But VC Fear welcomed the inclusion of the site: “It would be great to see the inclusion of a dedicated space for Bretforton Silver Band.

“They have been looking for an area for their new band room for some time now. The development of this land could give an opportunity for them to have a building with parking for their training and rehearsal space.”