KEMPSEY could still be given a new footpath in Old Road South along with a new development there.

Westbury Homes (Holdings) Ltd are building 11 new houses at the Old Vicarage and have applied for permission to build another four on adjoining land.

A Malvern Hills planning committee delegated powers of approval to the head of development control, David Murray and ward members Mike Biddle and Henry Morris, to allow for negotiations with the developers.

Play facilities

It is hoped to come to some agreement on the provision of a new footpath and additional play facilities in the village.

In objecting to the proposal for four more houses, Kempsey Parish Council pointed out that it would result in a new estate with at least 50 bedrooms.

They were worried the development did not answer Kempsey's need for affordable housing and would put more strain on the over-subscribed school and doctor's surgery.

There were also concerns about the lack of a footpath.