A PLAN to convert a blacksmith's workshop and forge into a two-bedroom home has been approved by Wychavon District councillors despite officers being against the idea.

Councillors decided the building, on land at Saints Farm in Martin Hussingtree, near Droitwich, could become a home for an agricultural worker on the farm. Officers had originally said the plan should be refused because the owners had not complied with council policy and marketed the building for commercial, recreational or community use before considering a residential proposal.

The policy was put in place to avoid too many farm buildings being turned into homes.

However, Councillor Andrew Christian-Brookes, who spoke at the council meeting, said: "I know this family. They are a very hardworking family and take farming very seriously. I can't see what we are refusing this one on."

Coun David Folkes said: "With farming as it is, if someone is interested in doing it and living there I think it would be an asset." Coun Margaret Rowley also rejected officers' claims that the home would be in an isolated rural area, saying that it was very close to Droitwich and the town's amenities.

Councillors gave permission for the plan on the condition the owners signed an agreement to say a farm worker would live there and the building was legally tied to the farm.