A PLAN to build 38 homes in a village was approved by councillors.

Spitfire Homes put forward a plan to build the homes on two sites either side of Pershore Road in Eckington near Pershore which Wychavon District Council’s planning officers approved unanimously at a meeting last Thursday (April 30).

A mix of three-bed bungalows and homes would be built to the west of Pershore Road next to the existing Roman Meadow development.

The homes would be suitable as retirement homes for over 65s and for younger families or those looking to downsize. Eight of the homes would also be marketed as affordable.

A further 21 homes – a mix of three-to-five bed homes – would be built to the east of Pershore Road.

Cllr Rob Adams said the plan was a “lovely application” that was well-supported and was happy to vote for its approval.

Cllr Ed Cohen told the planning committee he supported the homes was disappointed the plan did not help tackle the council’s targets to cut carbon emissions in half by 2030.

Cllr Tony Rowley said: “I think this a good application and I’m going to support it. Cllr [Rob] Adams said exactly what is right about this application in that it accords with the neighbourhood plan.

“I think this is a prime example for villages to follow. They know there is a need there for this type of housing. It’s properly planned. It’s a tremendous scheme.”

The plans to build 25 homes as part of the Roman Meadow development were backed in principle by the district council in 2016. A decision is still to be made by the council over the layout and design of the homes included in a plan put forward last August.

Eckington Parish Council said it supports building the homes as the plans are included in the village’s emerging neighbourhood plan.

Councillors also unanimously approved a separate proposal that accompanies the homes plan which would see around seven acres of pastureland for a new 100-space car park for the village's recreation centre.

The cemetery would also be expanded by around a third.

The rest of the land would be used as open space for the homes and could later be used, subject to planning permission, as new sports pitches or a new village hall.