CONTROVERSIAL plans to build thousands of new homes on land near Foxlydiate Lane and Pumphouse Lane have been given the go-ahead.

Plans were approved for the demolition of existing buildings and the erection of up to 2,560 homes at a highly emotional Bromsgrove meeting, held last night in the town's Parkside building.

The homes would be on land which has been considered for development on several occasions over the last 30 years.

As well as new homes the plans also include building a local centre including a number of retail shops, health and community facilities, a school, as well as all associated playing areas and parking.

The application, which received almost 150 public comments, many of them strongly objecting to it, went before Bromsgrove council chiefs last night Monday, October 14.

Many raised concerns about public safety, infrastructure, while many others have said the traffic plan is "seriously flawed" and needs reviewing.

Some have even called the application "frightening" that a large housing development is being considered when the land has not only a high pressure gas main, but also a petroleum pipeline running through it.