EXCITING proposals to transform the Royal Worcester Porcelain site and canalside could be redrafted because planners feel too much is being squeezed into the area.

The Worcester News reported in July on a bid to redevelop Royal Worcester Porcelain land into a stunning waterside quarter, including flats, offices, a hotel, museum and cafes.

Planners think the 432 homes originally planned for the Severn Street and Portland Walk site should be cut.

Offices are likely to take up some of the excess, creating more than 200 jobs, but planners are keen to leave some as landscaped open areas.

Long-serving city councillor Mike Layland, who was born on Diglis Road, said his personal view was that the site was overdeveloped and there was a need for more open space

However, he did not want to comment further before Thursday's Worcester City Council planning meeting, when the blueprint for the site will be discussed.

Planning officer Paul O'Connor said: "Frankly I think they are trying to squeeze a bit too much in."

His report to councillors added: "If there were to be fewer housing units,

more variety of dwellings and more office space, this would ease the potential adverse impact of the development. Fewer units would reduce density and assist with traffic generation.

"More variety could enhance the environmental quality and allow affordable housing on site. More offices would also allow more sustainable travel."

These will be recommended as the basis of further negotiations with applicants Royal Worcester and Berkeley Homes at Thursday's meeting.

The results of a road survey and housing plan will then be considered and further discussions with the applicants will be held before a final design is agreed.