DEVELOPERS have submitted plans to build up to 100 homes close to a major road in a village near Hereford.

Architects working on the scheme to develop Holmer House Farm near the A49 in Holmer say it would create a natural extension of the city.

The plans include converting the grade II listed farmhouse and replacement extension to create seven apartments.

The scheme would involve demolishing the modern farm buildings and building up to 91 market and affordable homes on the 9.68-acre site.

CDB Planning and Architecture, the applicant’s agent, held a public exhibition in October which was attended by 27 people.

“The comments made on the day and in the consultation response questionnaires were extremely encouraging with the majority in support of the principles of the development and/or the development proposals themselves,” said an architect in their design and access statement.

“There was particular support for the design and layout of the houses around Holmer House, the open setting to the church, the mix of housing and the fact that primary access was from the Bloor link Road.”

However, they also said some residents questioned the need for further housing in the parish which has a population of around 1,400.

Holmer and Shelwick parish council said the plans fall outside the settlement boundary identified in their draft neighbourhood development plan.

Councillors said there was ‘no justification’ for a further 100 homes in the parish.

They also raised concerns over poor access from the A49 and that the road leading up to the farmhouse is too narrow which could lead to poor traffic management.

Architects working on the scheme say the properties would nearly all be two storeys high and that the design would reflect the traditional character and vernacular of the area.

Residents have until February 14 to comment on the proposals which Herefordshire Council planners are expected to consider by April 9.