KEEN anglers could soon be casting their lines in a Worcestershire village if plans for a public game fishery are approved.

The proposed scheme on land north of Gilvers Lane, in Hanley Castle, involves the construction of two trout lakes, a wooden fishing lodge and a parking area.

It would open from 8am to dusk or 9pm and create one full-time and two part-time jobs.

Applicants Chris Lee and Charlotte Morgan, of Upton-upon-Severn, said support for the scheme was tremendous, with the Pershore and Upton NFU among those in favour.

They have also submitted a 140-signature petition to Malvern Hills District Council.

Supporters say it would be a valuable asset, help local businesses by attracting visitors to the area and the lakes would encourage biodiversity.

Mr Lee - a sheep and beef farmer who is now a lecturer at Pershore Group of Colleges - said the colleges were keen to run an angling course at the fishery.

He said concerns over coachloads of anglers at the site were unfounded, with the maximum number set at 20.

"There's not likely to be more than seven or eight at a time as it's a sport requiring peace and quiet," he added.

"We feel we've spent an awful lot of time on the application, as well as providing a facility for the locals."

The scheme comes before the council's southern area development control committee on Wednesday, where officers are recommending that the scheme is approved.

But Welland Parish Council is objecting as it says it would exacerbate flooding problems and it has concerns about access being too narrow for extra traffic.

A 38-signature petition has also been submitted to the council in opposition.

Issues raised include flooding concerns, the impact on protected species such as kingfishers and bats and its long-term viability.