Work has started on a controversial development plan that will see 79 new homes built in Bewdley. 

The development on Kidderminster Road, known as The Maples, will provide a mix of house sizes from one to four-bedroom properties in the aim of meeting local housing needs in Wyre Forest. 

The work is being carried out by Persimmon Homes with 25 per cent of the 79 homes being transferred to a housing association partner for rent and shared ownership. 

The site is also set to provide green space and is a no-gas community which has several environmental benefits including biodiversity net gain, air source heat pumps on each home and footpath connections throughout the development. 

Construction Director at Persimmon Homes South Midlands, Jak Harper, said: "We're delighted to have started work at The Maples. Not only will the no-gas development deliver 79 quality new homes and a biodiversity net gain, but it will also create local jobs as part of the construction and generate a significant investment in the local economy. 

"We're committed to creating vibrant, successful communities and supporting more local families in getting their dream homes. We're looking forward to our new community taking shape over the course of 2024." 

Kidderminster Shuttle: The Persimmon Homes team at the new development site The Persimmon Homes team at the new development site (Image: Persimmon Homes South Midlands)

As part of the development, more than £9,900 per home will be pledged by Persimmon to support infrastructure delivery as well as economic and environmental development. 

The wider site will also bring more than £632,206 to local education and £86,000 to local highways. 

Despite these promises, the plans have previously come under fire from residents who were concerned over the increase in traffic and the loss of green space. 

In May 2023, more than 230 objections were received on the Wyre Forest District Council website with around 50 concerned residents lining the Kidderminster Road in September 2022 to raise awareness of the development. 

For more information visit www.persimmonhomes.com