A FORMER petrol station described as an "eyesore" in the Worc-estershire countryside is set to be converted into homes.

Malvern Hills District Council planners approved Hercules House Ltd's application to demolish Nixons Garage in Welland Road, Upton-upon-Severn and build three homes.

Planning officers had recommended refusal on the grounds it would promote an unsustainable pattern of development and result in the loss of an employment site. However, planners granted it on the basis local plan policy allows exceptions to the loss of an employment site where the appearance and effect on the environment warrants a change of use. The premises were used for vehicle repairs and recovery and comprises a brick garage and smaller shed alongside, with part of it occupied by scrap cars.

Barry Connally, of Hercules House, said the idea of the Malvern local plan was to make Malvern "a better place" and the development would do so.

"We all know Malvern is famous for the Elgar Route, its water and sheer natural beauty for which we're able to enhance with this application."

Councillor Mary Wilkinson said the argument it would be a loss of an employment site was not valid. "For many years nobody's been employed there apart from its owners, and it would be of better benefit if we did have some houses there, because they'd be paying council tax, presumably. I just feel it's a golden opportunity to put right what's been an eyesore for some time."

Councillor Sue Adeney said the neighbours were suffering as they were being disturbed three or four times a week by possible criminal activity on the site. She said she was keen for them to explore the opportunity for home/work units to provide opportunities for people to work on site.

However, Councillor Clive Smith said while he sympathised with concerns, it would be contrary to planning policy regarding residential development in open countryside. Councillors voted 15-3 in favour.