A major development proposal on the edge of Worcester is raising eyebrows – with some local residents and parish councillors warning that it could mark the start of significant urban expansion into the countryside around our village.
The plan, put forward by developers Welbeck Strategic Land, would see around 2,204 new homes built between Bath Road and Norton Road, south of Taylors Lane – just outside Kempsey parish.
What’s Proposed
- The scheme is being described by planners as a new “super-village” on the city fringe, rather than just an extension to either Kempsey or Worcester.
- The land identified is currently greenfield and lies within the countryside beyond the built-up edge of Kempsey and Worcester.
- Infrastructure issues such as local roads, the A38 and Bath Road junctions, and public services are among the topics already under scrutiny.
Local Concerns
Residents and the Kempsey Parish Council have expressed worries including:
- Urban sprawl: The development would shift the village-countryside boundary significantly, impacting the character of the local area.
- Infrastructure pressure: Existing roads, schools, health services and utilities may struggle to cope with an influx of over 2,000 homes.
- Loss of green space: The proposed site currently serves as open countryside; building on it would reduce green-belt-style buffers around Kempsey.
- Community identity: There is concern that a large development might change the nature of Kempsey from village to “suburb” without necessarily delivering the supporting community facilities.
Developer & Planner Position
The developer argues the new homes are needed to help meet housing demand in the region and that the design would incorporate green infrastructure, links to local services and a new community focus rather than a simple housing estate.
Planners have indicated they will assess the scheme’s impact on traffic, flood risk, local amenities and environmental effects before any decision is made.
What This Means for Kempsey
Although the site borders our parish and is technically in the planning-zone for Worcester/Malvern Hills, the impact falls heavily on Kempsey residents. Things to keep an eye on:
- How the additional housing affects traffic on the A38, Bath Road and local lanes in Kempsey.
- Whether the scheme includes schools, health facilities, shops, and green spaces or simply houses.
- What happens to local rural character – open views, wildlife habitats, and the “village feel” we cherish.
- The opportunities for Kempsey to engage in planning consultations, making sure the village voice is heard.
What You Can Do
- Visit the planning consultation/ public exhibition when details become available-your feedback matters.
- Talk with councillors at Kempsey Parish Council and let them know your views.
- Keep an eye on the planning application reference (once published) via the Malvern Hills District Council / Worcester City planning portals.
- Consider how this development might affect your daily life – traffic, services, green space, etc.
- Share your concerns and suggestions for how the development should proceed to benefit Kempsey (rather than simply being added to the edge of the village).
Final Thoughts
A development of this scale is a defining moment for our community. While housing growth is inevitable, how it’s handled will shape what Kempsey will feel like in years to come. It could either be an opportunity for improved facilities and stronger community links – or a risk to the rural character we value.
We’ll continue to monitor the application closely and bring you updates here on Kempsey.co.uk as the plans move forward.
