THE construction of two detached houses has been backed despite concerns over drainage and access.

Malvern Hills District Council's southern area development management committee approved Phil Nelson's plans for the dwellings in Strensham Road, Upton, by 12 votes to four, with two abstentions on Wednesday.

Cllr Roger Sutton opposed the plan on grounds of drainage and flooding.

He said: "There has been drainage problems for many, many years that have not been resolved and there are a number of properties around this development that have been flooded on many, many occasions.

"Adding additional properties seems to me to be increasing the quite considerable risks."

Cllr Sutton also suggested its position on a bend in a narrow lane posed potential problems with access.

However, cllr Clive Smith proposed the application be accepted due to "the pressure we are under from central government" to approve housing plans.