A PLANNING inspector was this week hearing evidence about a controversial plan for flats in Malvern Link.

Ciel Properties, of Birmingham, were last November refused permission to build three blocks of flats on land between the A449 Worcester Road and the Safeway supermarket car park.

Ciel decided to appeal against Malvern Hills District Council's refusal, an appeal which opened on Tuesday morning at Priory Lodge Hall, Avenue Road.

Robert Sexton, the central government inspector for the appeal, opened the proceedings by summarising the case.

He said he would consider and the impact of the development on the character and appearance of the area. The risk of flooding, both on the site, and elsewhere was also a central issue.

Several local residents were at the inquiry to give their views.

Chris Edwards, of Worcester Road, who lives near the proposed development, told the inquiry: "I've got major concerns about looking out of my garden and seeing a building on the other side.

"I don't see why we should put up with noise from road traffic and more people in that area".

Bernie Smith, an MHDC planning officer, gave evidence that there was enough brownfield sites for housing for projected future needs, including the former DERA North Site.

"In this instance, the council considers that the environmental character and qualities of the appeal site are of overriding importance in this location," he said.

Anthony Crean, for Ciel, said that Ciel would plant new trees to screen the development from view. He also stressed the new flats would provide much-needed affordable housing for Malvern.

The inquiry is due to finish today, and Mr Sexton will consider his decision before issuing his report.