CONTROVERSIAL proposals to build a business park on the outskirts of Worces-ter have overcome the first planning hurdle.

Spen Hill Developments's application for outline permission for the development of an office and general industrial park at Grove Farm, near St John's, Worcester, was approved by Worcester City Council's planning committee.

The plans concerned the proposed access for the site, off Bromyard Road, with a second emergency access on the same road.

Matters of design, external appearance, siting and landscaping will be the subject of future applications.

Councillor Francis Lan-kester said local people were making a sacrifice for the "greater economic good of the city".

Coun Barry Mackenzie-Williams said: "It is essential we protect our employment land, but equally essential for the people who are going to be near it that it is the best standard we can achieve."

Plans for the site, allocated for office and industrial use in the council's Local Plan, sparked controversy when they were submitted 15 months ago.

At Thursday's meeting, the Rev Robin Charles, speaking on behalf of the Grove Farm Residents Voice, said the park would be an "eyesore" and create traffic and parking problems. He also accused the applicant of submitting plans that were not to scale.

Speaking on behalf of the developer, Su Ross said the plans were accurate and to scale.

Bob Pender, Worcester-shire County Council's development control officer, said about £300,000 of a £371,400 contribution from the developer would be used to create a bus service to Grove Farm from the city. centre.