Green Light for Controversial Martley Housing Development
Plans to construct dozens of new homes on the edge of a Worcestershire village have been formally approved, overriding strong opposition from local residents. Hayfield Homes has received permission to build 55 properties on green fields off Berrow Green Road in Martley, a decision that has sparked significant local debate.
From Rejection to Approval: The Planning Journey
The development's path to approval has been contentious. Malvern Hills District Council initially rejected the outline proposal last year following substantial opposition from villagers. However, the project was resurrected after a planning inspector allowed it on appeal. The council has now granted approval for the more detailed, 'reserved matters' plans, stating that the fundamental principles of development, including the site's suitability for housing, the number of homes, and the access road location, had already been settled by the appeal decision.
Local Concerns and Developer Promises
The approval has been met with dismay by many in the community. Martley Parish Council formally opposed the latest plans, raising specific concerns that street lighting would be out of character for the area. In response, district planners confirmed that the internal roads will remain private and there will be no street lighting, as the development falls within a designated Dark Sky area, prized for minimal light pollution and stargazing.
Resident Rishi Verma captured local sentiment, stating plainly, "This new development is not welcomed and certainly not needed." Another local, Craig Marks, highlighted the cumulative impact, noting, "This, with the two additional planning applications from Jessops and Lioncourt, would double the population of the village in a short space of time."
Despite the opposition, Hayfield Homes has outlined several benefits for the new estate. The developer announced that 22 of the 55 homes will be designated as 'affordable homes'. The mix of properties will include two-storey houses with varying bedroom counts, two flats, and three bungalows.
The development will also feature modern amenities and accessibility measures, including:
- Electric vehicle charging points for all homes.
- Cycle parking facilities.
- Pedestrian routes designed to be suitable for mobility-impaired individuals.
- Tactile paving at key crossing points to assist the visually impaired.
Parking will be provided conveniently for individual properties, largely located on their own plots. The approval, dated November 22, 2025, marks a significant change for the village, setting a precedent for future development on its outskirts.
