NO objections have been raised by members of Powick Parish Council to the change of use of Callow End's former post office and shop.

But members were concerned to hear that a similar application for Powick's former post office to be converted to residential accommodation had already been granted.

District councillor Tom Wells said permission appeared to have been given by planning officers under delegated powers, although contentious issues were normally taken to a planning committee.

"I share the concern that at this stage we have yet to see a post office open on a new site," he said.

"It strikes me as premature to grant permission for change of use before a new post office is up and running."

Les Davies pointed out that Callow End did not yet have a new post office either.

In both villages, the old post office has closed down and there are moves afoot to set up a new post office in different premises.

Joan Richardson and her son, Martin, closed Callow End post office a year ago and now want to convert it to residential use.

In the meantime, a plan to open a new post office in the Blue Bell pub has received planning permission and is going ahead.

Powick postmaster Keith Johnson closed his post office and general store at Christmas, saying that the business was barely making a profit.

A new one could be opened across the road at Powick Service Station, if owner Priyvadan Rughani is given planning permission to make extra parking space there.

He withdrew a plan to create five parking spaces because Malvern Hills planners said the scheme threatened the health of a mature beech tree.

A new plan for two parking spaces is still awaiting planning permission.