CONTROVERSIAL plans for holiday lodges in woodlands close to Malvern look set to be approved tonight.

Opponents of the scheme are planning to mount a protest this afternoon outside the building where a Malvern Hills District Council planning committee is due to meet at 6pm.

The Three Counties Agricultural Societyy originally applied to build 50 lodges and a reception building in Langdale Wood, off Blackmore Park Road, but this was turned down by Malvern Hills District Council in January.

A second application, with the number of lodges reduced to 40, will be on the table tonight.

After the first plan was refused, the society closed off access to the public, citing safety reasons. An application was made to have the wood declared an asset of community value, but it was turned down in March.

A petition against the first proposal received over 1,200 signatures.

Critics argue that plans will destroy the woodland.

But the Three Counties Agricultural Society previously said there was a shortage of accommodation in the local area and that the project would help to secure its financial future.

At tonight's meeting, the council's southern area planning committee is being recommended to approve the plan, subject to conditions, including more details of the acress off Blackmore Park Road and of extra tree planting.