FLATS are set to be built on a controversial site where a protected Worcester black pear tree was uprooted after councillors granted permission for the development.

Landowner Martin Bird cleared the plot behind Hill Street, off Tallow Hill, angering neighbours by removing the rare tree thought to be 100 years old.

But Worcester City Council's chief planning officer, Peter Yates, said the tree had been felled before a Tree Preservation Order was served on Mr Bird.

"We can get substantial new tree planting carried out there," he said at the council's planning committee meeting on Thursday. "The development meets all our standards."

Regenerate

Paul Farley, an agent for Mr Bird, said the six-flat, two-storey development would help to regenerate the area.

He said 55 letters of notification had been sent to residents, resulting in five objections and one letter of support.

"The majority of people are either not bothered or they want to see the area improve," he said.

"The area can attract drug addicts. If this went ahead, the problem would be eliminated.

"It will provide much needed lower cost accommodation near the city centre."

Committee member Coun Allah Ditta agreed the area needed developing.

"I welcome it," he said. "I have reservations about the parking, but I don't think we have much choice."

The committee followed planning officers' advice and granted permission for the flats.