A PLAN to build three bungalows on the grounds of a former city nursery should not be allowed, council planning officers have said.

Plans have been put forward to build three bungalows in the grounds of Birchwood Mill off Northwick Close in Worcester, which was home to Little Squirrels Early Years and Pre-School before it closed suddenly in February last year following a damning Ofsted inspection.

Worcester City Council’s planning committee meets next Thursday (April 22) with a recommendation from council officers that the plan is refused because the land is classed as green space.

The land, near to the River Severn, is currently filled with playground equipment, a greenhouse, raised beds and a number of wooden buildings.

A number of storage buildings that are used for maintaining the garden would be demolished to make way for the two three-bed and one two-bed bungalows under the plans by Peter Lynas.

Neighbours in Northwick Close largely supported the plan during public consultation saying they would prefer the land to be used for housing rather than see it return to a nursery and pre-school.

One neighbour in nearby Eastbank Drive said: "As occupants of Eastbank Drive since 1983 we have seen many changes at the above site.

"We do however have no objection in principle to the proposed development.

"It will be a far superior use of the site than the previous childcare services which generated a huge amount of noise and we would not wish this facility to be reinstated at any time."

A report by council planning officers said: "The site along with neighbouring gardens in the green space contribute to the spatial characteristics and distinctiveness of the local area. The proposed development would result in an uncharacteristic concentration of built form behind the host property and would fail to integrate with the pattern of development in the surrounding green space area."

Worcester City Council's planning committee meets from 1.30pm next Thursday (April 22).