A CONTROVERSIAL plan for an edge-of-town housing development was withdrawn at the last moment.

The application, for around 70 homes on land off Half Key Road, North Malvern, was due to be discussed at a Malvern Hills District Council planning meeting on Wednesday.

But the plan was withdrawn by the applicant, Gilbert Brooke of Barley Farm, Alfrick, the day before the meeting.

Hundreds of local residents had written to the council, objecting strongly to the plan.

Among their worries was development in the countryside and the impact of extra traffic on the road network.

If the application had gone forward to the meeting, planning officers were recommending it for refusal.

Andy Green, chairman of the residents committee opposing the plan, said: "We're not entirely surprised. The local opposition was so strong and the planning officers came up with five reasons for refusal."

At the same meeting, members backed in principle a scheme to knock down an Edwardian house in the conservation area of Malvern Link and build eight flats.

Complete Utilities Ltd had applied to build the block at 46 Church Road.

Approval was delegated to the planning officers and local members, provided the applicant comes back with a revised plan to make the building less overbearing.

The committee gave Double Vision Video Ltd of Half Key Farm, North Malvern, permission to convert outbuildings to store videotapes and DVDs.

Also approved was a barn conversion at the Coach House, Glenberrow, Hollybush.

A scheme to replace a house at Dugmore Cottage, Pendock, was turned down.