RESIDENTS have criticised a plan for 36 new affordable homes amid concerns about traffic and parking.

It would see a disused building knocked down in Swan Lane, Evesham on the corner with Rynal Street and 36 homes replacing it, including 18 parking spaces and 18 cycling spaces.

A number of residents have voiced issues with the traffic the application could cause, whilst Evesham Town Council have suggested that it should be refused, as well as West Mercia Police.

Stuart Carter, clerk of the town council said: "Evesham Town Council recommend refusal - considered over development and density plus concern regarding traffic and the impact on the highway."

Mike Stephenson, design officer for West Mercia Police said: "I have two areas within the design that are causing me considerable concern.

"The first is the parking bays to the north of the scheme. There is very little natural surveillance over these vehicles as its mainly bedroom windows that overlook these spaces. In my opinion there is a real lack of ownership.

"The second and probably more concerning is the cycle storage. It is located in an under croft walkway, with no surveillance what so ever. Next to footpath it will create anonymity and again a real lack of ownership. "Unless the applicant is intending to spend several thousands of pounds on a high security compound (rather than Sheffield stands) then I suspect no one will ever park a cycle there for fear of it being stolen"

"I am left with little option but to object to this application."

The building was formerly home to the Evesham Journal and has since been home to One to One Gym but the site has been vacant for several years.

Colin Tether told Wychavon District Council: "I am very surprised that the residents of Nos 1 to 12 Rynal Street have not been included in the consultation.

"These properties are Grade II listed and are very close to the proposed development. They will be overlooked and affected by the traffic movements in and out if the car parking area. I ask that this omission is put right as soon as possible and that the consultation period is extended to ensure that the residents have sufficient time to make their comments."

Audrey Hansen added: "I live in a Grade 2 One bed opposite this application which directly affects me,yet have received no notification and none of Rynal Street have.

"Swan Lane traffic starts at 5am,meeting Rynal is often gridlocked,an extra line of traffic joining will add extra noise and air pollution.

"To avoid Swan Lane traffic lights,motorists come up Rynal St the wrong way as a cut through already.

"The cars entering your proposed entrance/Exit will add more traffic to Rynal Street,making more noise for the residents.

"You are proposing 18 parking bays for 36 units,where do the rest park?"

A consultation is open until Thursday April 19.

For more information or to make a comment visit the Wychavon District Council planning website and enter reference 18/00034/FUL