PLANS to build 126 homes on green space between villages on the outskirts of Evesham have been rejected by councillors much to the delight of local opposition.

An application to develop the new estate on the land south of Pershore Road in Evesham had threatened to bridge the strategic gap between the town the villages of Little Hampton and Great Hampton.

Local people and ward councillors all raised concerns against the proposals by BFP Developments, including worries about flooding on the site and the impact it would have on the level of traffic on the roads.

Cllr John Smith, who represents the area as a town, district and county councillor, spoke on behalf of the town council.

He said: "I am sure the members could see from the site visit and look me they will believe this is a totally inappropriate area for development. It's always been recognised by this council that this is an important gap.

"Don't let's kid ourselves, this road does flood and seriously flood."

The councillor went onto raise concerns about access to the site, which will see people enter and exit the site onto busy roads and through already congested estates.

Local resident Colin Merriman added: "I have lived in Evesham for 24 years and I know for a fact there have been two facilities on the bend and one on the bridge."

But speaking in support of the proposal Greg Mitchell said the development would not bridge the gap between the two villages.

He said: "The proposing gap, although narrowing the gap will not bridge the gap."

But councillors on Wychavon District Council's planning committee agreed with the local people and threw out the plans.

Cllr Ken Jennings added: "There's no point having a strategic gap and then having it salami sliced."