If you’ve ever wondered who actually decides what gets built around Kempsey, the short answer is: not the Parish Council – but they do get a say.
On Monday 2 March 2026 at 7:30pm, Kempsey Parish Council’s Planning Committee is meeting at Kempsey Community Centre to look at a number of planning applications that affect the village and surrounding area.
This meeting is open to the public, and there’s a chance to speak – but it’s useful to understand what this committee does (and just as importantly, what it doesn’t do).
So… what does the Planning Committee actually do?
The Parish Planning Committee:
- reviews planning applications
- discusses local concerns
- submits comments on behalf of the parish
But – and this is important – it does not make the final decision.
All planning decisions are made by Malvern Hills District Council. Kempsey Parish Council is a statutory consultee, meaning MHDC must ask for its views, but they are advisory only.
Can the public speak?
Yes – briefly.
There’s a Public Question Time at the start of the meeting:
- Up to 30 minutes
- 3 minutes per speaker
- You can raise a new issue, ask for an update, or share relevant information
- You can’t take part in the meeting itself
It’s not a debate – more a chance to put something on the record.
What’s on the agenda this time?
Here’s a plain-English rundown of the main items.
Housing and building changes
- Clerkenleap Farm House (Broomhall)
Former offices being converted into three homes, including listed building consent. - 2 Brook End Cottages
A proposed single-storey extension and balcony. - 1 Centurion Drive
Retrospective replacement of an acoustic fence.
Business use changes
- Malbre House, Main Road
Proposal to change a former B&B into a motor vehicle sales garage, with workshop space and a two-bedroom flat above.
Larger developments & ongoing schemes
- Updates on affordable housing developments around Broomhall and Bath Road
- New documents relating to site access, ecology, archaeology, and design
- Discussion of Abbotswood Ridge Neighbourhood (South) consultation
For information only
Some applications have already been approved by Malvern Hills District Council, including:
- A garage conversion to create a family annex
- Rebuilding a boundary wall at the Talbot Inn
These aren’t being decided again – they’re just being noted.