OVERJOYED residents have received the "best Christmas present possible" after plans to re-develop a Bromsgrove nursing home were scrapped.

On Monday, at Bromsgrove District Council's planning committee meeting, members heard developers Heart of England Housing Group had withdrawn plans to extend Breme House, in Churchfields.

At the meeting a 200-name petition was handed to members calling for a halt to the plans just in case they are resubmitted.

Campaigners had also sent letters to the authority outlining their fears that the extension, which would come up to the rear of their houses, in Churchfields Road, would lead to a loss of privacy.

Protesters claimed the changes would devalue their homes, cause traffic chaos, disturbances during construction work and loss of light.

A spokesman for the developers said the project had been withdrawn because they were unaware of issues raised against the plans.

He added: "We will be resubmitting the plans but want to do it with the support of planners and neighbours."

Resident Karen Mason-Towers said: "This is the best Christmas present we could have had.

"It is fantastic news after two months of worry.

"Everyone rallied round to write letters and get a petition going.

"We will have to see what happens next."

Cllr Jean Hancox (Con, Sidemoor) said: "The petition was still handed in even though the plans were withdrawn because we have to remain vigilant about this one."