A LARGE indoor swimming pool can be built in the grounds of a grade-II listed farmhouse in the Worcestershire countryside.

Despite objections from two parish councils, Malvern Hills District Council has approved the plans for Northington Farm, Farm Lane, Holt Heath.

The site is about one mile from Holt and within Grimley parish. Both Grimley and Holt parish councils objected to the plans, saying the size of the building was excessive, it was in open countryside and would be visible from surrounding areas. The building has a footprint of about 200 sq metres - about the same size as the farmhouse - and includes a swimming pool, changing rooms, kitchen, spa, relaxation area and plant room.

But it will be just 4.4 metres (14.4ft) high - lower than many household garages.

Members of the council's northern area development control committee were told hedges and trees could be used to screen the pool.

The scheme was approved subject to satisfactory non-reflective glass being used.