WYCHBOLD residents will have the chance to air their views about a possible new development in the village at a planning appeal later this month.

Whitbread Plc and Design Site Ltd have proposed to build a family restaurant and public house on the site of Wychall Cottage, in Worcester Road, but the application was originally turned down.

The proposal has also come across stiff opposition from some Wychbold residents and Dodderhill Parish Council.

We are hoping the proposal will be turned down once again as this is one thing too many in the village," said parish councillor, Judy Pearce.

"We have plenty of pubs nearby and we think it's unnecessary. Also we think it will make the access to the post office even more dangerous, which at present is an absolute lifeline for the villagers," she added.

Peter Hood, of Walkmill Road, agreed. He said: "The village has already been spoilt by recent developments, it just seems never-ending. They are just trying to sneak this pub in by the back door and it will be a real blot on the landscape. Not only that, but there is also the worry of increased traffic in the area."

Whitbread Plc was contacted but had not responded by the time the Advertiser went to press.