AN UNCONVENTIONAL proposal to build solar-powered homes in Pershore was backed by council planners.

A total of 75 highly energy-efficient and solar-powered homes will now be built on land off Station Road in Pershore after it was given approval by planners at Wychavon District Council.

Greentown Housing take cues from Sweden by constructing various parts of the homes - such as walls, floors and doors - off-site and then putting them together on location.

The homes would be the first of its kind in Worcestershire, the developer said.

This method is a standard construction method in Scandinavia and is supposed to keep disruption to a minimum.

The developer said the main structure would be installed in about two days and would take eight weeks to put in place.

Cllr Charles Tucker, who represents Pershore, said the innovative design of the homes set a "welcome precedent" for the area.

Cllr Tony Miller said: "It's nice to see something come through that is looking towards the future."

Of the 75 homes, 30 would be sold and rented as affordable in line with the council's 40 per cent policy on affordable housing.

Permission for 75 homes was granted in principle by Wychavon District Council in December 2018.

The planning application is one of several submitted or already approved on land off Station Road as part of the Pershore North Urban Extension.

Wychavon District Council's planning committee approved the plan unanimously at a meeting on October 17.