COUNCILLORS have passed controversial plans for 30 homes in Oakenshaw, despite strong opposition.

Redditch Council received a 157-name petition and 105 letters objecting to the plan to build two, three and four-bedroom houses off Grangers Lane and Rough Hill Drive.

The £2.6 million proposal, from Accord Housing Association, will create the town's first self-sufficient homes run by solar power.

Residents nearby raised about 50 concerns about the scheme, including increase in traffic, security issues and the destruction of an ancient hedgerow and driveway.

The site was highlighted in the council's Local Plan for development and planning chiefs felt the proposal was acceptable.

The plans were given the go-ahead, subject to conditions, at a planning committee meeting last week.