SEVEN new homes will be built in a village north of Leominster following planning approval.

The three detached (two four-bed and one two-bed) and four semi detached three-bed homes will be built opposite The Balance Inn in Luston.

Herefordshire Council's Planning Committee heard concerns about the 'urban' style of the development.

Cllr Gerry Thompson for Luston Group Parish, said the parish is positive about development in the village but that they believe there should be only three to five homes built on that site.

Concerns were also raised about surface water from the site adding to the problems of flooding in the nearby brook.

The village's Neighbourhood Plan is nearing completion but it is not sufficiently advanced to attract weight for the purposes of determining planning applications.

Cllr Philip Edwards said: "I too believe this is an urban style development in a rural village. Seven is too many. I have difficulty accepting 17 to the hectare."

But the meeting heard that Herefordshire Council is currently failing to provide a five year housing land supply, plus a 20 per cent buffer.

The minimum indicative growth target for Luston Group Parish between 2011 and 2031 is 55 homes, with 17 commitments or completions so far.

The application was approved in accordance with the case officer’s recommendation.