THE Chairman of Warndon Parish Council has praised residents objecting to the proposed GTech development for their "research and arguments".

Around 15 residents of Warndon Villages attended the meeting of Warndon Parish Council on Monday night, where the controversial planning application was discussed.

Technology company GTech has applied for a 2,915 sq metre headquarters off the junction of Berkeley Way and Parsonage Way, near the 900-year-old grade one listed St Nicholas Church.

A public meeting was held at the church on Sunday, February 22 where many concerned residents claimed they were unaware of the plans until they read about it in your Worcester News.

Parish Council chairman Dave Long said the council had now lodged an objection to the application.

"We have objected for three main reasons. First of all, because the site is not included in the in-progress South Worcestershire Development Plan. Second, because it is very much a heritage site and a conservation area as it is close to the 8th century church, which to me is a nicer vista than a large building, but that's my opinion," he said.

"Finally, we are concerned about the impact on the local area, the residents, and traffic.

"I also want to praise local residents for the research they have done and the arguments they have put together. People are working hard to make their feelings known."

GTech founder and chief executive Nick Gray said he understood resident’s concerns but said the development would improve rather than damage the area.

"We have been very open and welcome the thoughts of our fellow residents of Worcester," he said.

“We do understand that some local people are concerned, but we want to provide a beautiful landscaped site with a nature reserve that safe-guards the area from further development, and works in harmony with our neighbours."

Residents raised concerns at the meeting that they believed work was already being carried out on the site, but it was confirmed that the work was to make way for bird nesting and not to do with the proposed development.

To view the plans visit www.worcester.gov.uk and search for application P15P0013.