FOUR executive homes are to built on part of the garden of a Grade II listed house in Malvern which was once the home of one of the most influential figures in British medicine.

The new properties are to go up at Barnards Green House, which was once occupied by Sir Charles Hastings - founder of the British Medical Association in 1855 and largely responsible for the establishment of the General Medical Council.

Sir Charles was born in Ludlow but at the age of 18 was appointed house surgeon to Worcester Royal Infirmary. He quickly became one of the leading physicians in the country and was passionate about the improvement of his profession. He died in 1866 aged 72 at his home at the foot of the Malvern Hills.

The land, which has been bought by Hagley Homes, includes a listed greenhouse which is to be dismantled and rebuilt inside the new boundary of the house.

The front of the house, overlooking a famous rose garden, dates from 1635.

Two wings were added later and the central part was built in 1840.

The garden that contains some unusual plants has been a focal point for visits by members of the public for more than 30 years as part of the National Gardens Scheme.

Prices have yet to be decided for the houses that will extend from 2,000 to 2,500 sq ft and will have accommodation "in keeping with the location".

Hagley Homes' managing director Richard Jones said the company was delighted to have secured the deal.

He added that the house lies in a picturesque part of the town, where there is a natural pool and an attractive area of common land.

Mr Jones said: "It is a rare opportunity we have secured in a town with great traditions and we expect that there will be a great deal of interest."