A DECISION on a controversial proposal to build almost 200 homes on Bewdley farmland has been delayed.

Gladman Developments ‘ planned 195-house scheme on land of off The Lakes Road, in Bark Hill, was due to go before Wyre Forest District Council’s planning committee on December 13.

But the firm has requested the application be put back a month and the authority confirmed it will go to planning chiefs on January 17.

The proposal sparked a storm of protest from Bewdley residents, businesses and councillors leading to the formation of the ‘Bewdley Says No to Gladman’ campaign.

More than 580 people objected to the application saying it would have a huge negative impact on the town.

Gladman has declined to comment on their plans and the opposition to them but have previously stated there is a need for more housing in Bewdley and that 59 of the properties would be affordable homes.

Campaign group chairman Rod Stanczyszyn said: “It seems that Gladman have realised just how inappropriate their application is. If approved, the development would cause further traffic chaos and air pollution in Welch Gate and Bewdley Town centre.

“It would destroy numerous bird and other wildlife habitats and have a detrimental effect on an area of high landscape value.

“We still believe that this unwanted application will be rejected and then an appeal may be lodged. We are determined to be ready for this eventuality.”

Deputy Mayor Phil Edmundson added: “We should take some relief from the delay in the proposal to WFDC’s planning committee; it means the protest of this inappropriate and unwanted project, vocally voiced by the Bewdley community, is being heard.

“It suggests that issues raised over infrastructure, communications and the exceptionally high pollution rates in Welch Gate are being taken seriously. Perhaps Gladman’s are rethinking the whole project and will move to reconsider this venture.”