A unique development combining living and work space could give a boost to the economy of Bromyard.

Plans have been submitted to Herefordshire Council for 33 live/work units on Porthouse Farm Industrial Estate, in a scheme that could provide a blueprint for revitalising rural towns.

The idea is to broaden Bromyard's employment base by encouraging small business and self-employment, while reducing commuting traffic.

The plans combine workshops either below one or two-storey maisonettes or close by. Creating such a close-knit environment is thought to encourage strong community links and increase security. The maisonettes would also have roof terraces to take advantage of views over the River Frome flood plain.

The plans are a joint submission by Worcester-based Marsten Developments and Bath-based architects Stubbs Rich.

A similar project at Dormington, near Hereford, devised by the same architects for a Herefordshire food and drink centre, has already been given planning approval.

Stubbs Rich director John Hewitt said: "The live/work is an innovative project because it looks at the whole concept of where the future of towns in the country lie. They are more likely to be populated by people looking to establish a certain lifestyle. A living working community will help attract those people."

At Monday's meeting of Bromyard Town Council's planning committee, the majority of councillors gave their approval, although two objected because they felt the plans demonstrated over-development of the site, which has been vacant for 15 years.

However mayor Joan Dauncey gave her support, particularly, she said, because of the recent announcement that Hydro Automotive Structures will be relocating from Bromyard to Worcester later this year.

She said: "I don't think any of us quite realise the impact that is going to make to Bromyard. Hydro workers spend £150 a week on sandwiches. Losing that is going to be a terrific loss. I think these live/work units might be the answer to our problems."

Town councillors also gave the nod to adjacent plans for an office block by the same development team.