ONE of the most historic parts of Worcester is to be preserved for future generations following a landmark city council decision.

City councillors have voted to make two Battenhall Streets a conservation area - a move designed to ward off developers.

Victorian homes in Battenhall Road and Battenhall Avenue are included in the scheme, as well as St Mary's Convent School.

The conservation area - now fondly dubbed the Battenhall Village' by council bosses - was approved at a meeting of the city's planning committee last night.

The authority's head of planning Paul O' Connor said: "The reason for doing this is because the Battenhall Village has a character that is important to retain.

"The late Victorian era villas around Battenhall Road and Battenhall Avenue are special, and are vulnerable to development.

"What this does is not preclude development altogether, but raises the bar in terms of quality.

"Any proposal that now comes to us will have to preserve or enhance the area.

"The quality of any future architect has to be really top quality, that is the test it requires."

A planning application has already been submitted to demolish 51 Battenhall Road, but that now looks likely to be rejected.

Coun Mike Layland said: "I fully support this conservation order being made, but why don't we make more in Worcester?"

Mr O'Connor said: "There is a recognition in the city that we have scope for conservation areas, but they have to be special and we don't want to water down its effects.

"It is a tool to safeguard the character of an area."

Coun David Tibbutt, who represents Battenhall said: "This is wonderful news - I'm sure local people will be delighted.

"We have a legacy to carry forward, and this is an excellent decision. It makes a nice Christmas present."

Earlier this year the city council made a conservation order was made on the historic cricket pavilion off Bransford Road, St John's.

For full story and reaction see tomorrow's Worcester News