A DRAFT guide on the future of transport in Worcester and how it ties in with future building developments has been branded "appalling" by city planners.

The guide, drawn up by Worcestershire County Council's highways department, helps planners decide if new developments would put stress on existing parking spaces, roads and public transport in the area.

Bosses will be encouraged to think about disabled parking, motorbike and cycle provision with any new developments.

But city council planners hit out at the document when it came before the planning committee on Thursday, saying it was biased on the need to avoid highway maintenance costs and the risk of litigation.

They also hit out at its "1950s" approach to safety measures on new developments. One item of the document says highways trees or plants should not be above 600mm (2ft) high.

Councillor Bob Peachey said: "I'm appalled at this document - it's an appalling report which is ill-considered and seems to have come from someone in an urban environment who has no concern about the historic environment of Worcestershire."

Under the guide a new term called home zones will specify reasons for approving new developments - taking into account how close a new development is to public transport.

New developments would see traffic calming measures installed in more places in Worcester and there would be a 'no lighting pollution' rule on street lighting.

Councillor Geoff Williams was among other councillors highly critical of the document. He said: "When I first saw this I thought it was a document that somebody had put together as a joke at lunchtime."

The city council is now planning to write to the highways departments and request a re-write of the guide to bring in greener development policies.