A PLEDGE fund aimed at fighting a potential appeal for a major development in Upper Welland has hit its £10,000 target.
Kler Group’s plans to build 95 homes on an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) on Upper Welland Road were thrown out by the district council but determined village residents set up the ‘Save our Scenery’ fund with fears the developer would appeal the decision.
The money, which has been raked in by Upper Welland Action Group (UWAG), would ensure legal and technical experts were available to fight its corner.
Theresa Ollis, treasurer of UWAG, said: “The size of this war chest to fight any forthcoming appeal of the planning application gives an indication of the strength of feeling against the threat to build housing estates on the green fields surrounding Upper Welland.
“This is a great result for such a small village.
“Our concern is the development domino effect that is taking place in other villages such as Welland and indeed Malvern generally.”
On Sunday (May 10) the group took to the site to celebrate reaching the £10,000 landmark and demanded the newly-elected council back its case.
“This is not nimbyism,” Theresa added. “The flood gates are opening and the precious AONB, together with the very character of Malvern, will be lost forever to everyone, residents and visitors alike.
“Who will want to walk on the hills and look down on a sea of rooftops?
“We can only hope the newly elected council provides the leadership and resources required to ensure Malvern’s unique past, present and fragile future are not irrevocably sacrificed for short term gain.”
