A PLAN to erect two large storage barns near one of the main routes into Malvern has been recommended for refusal by the town council.

Coun Keith Smith, chairman of the planning committee, told members that the authority had been inundated with letters, phone calls and e-mails from people concerned about the scheme.

Farmer John Bullock has applied for consent to erect the two agricultural buildings on land south of the B4211 Guarlford Road, not far from the Green Dragon pub.

Coun Smith said people had objected because of size of the proposed barns. There were also concerns about the location, environmental impact, problems of screening, road access and traffic as well as the precedent for future development.

Planning committee members visited the site before meeting last Thursday (June 21) and heard from members of the public opposed to the plan.

Resident Graham Crisp said: "The fundamental objection is that they are on a huge scale and I don't believe they will ever be effectively screened from the hills."

But Coun David Williams said the position of the farmer also had to be considered.

He said: "We're trying to support farmers these days, not only for their own commercial good but for the benefit of the environment and us all."

The committee voted overwhelmingly to recommend refusal of the plan. Their recommendation will go to Malvern Hills District Council, which has the power to determine the outcome of the application.