PLANS to create two new flats next to an existing Edwardian building in Wells Road, Malvern, will be going before district councillors next week.

Nick Hines has applied for planning permission to create the new development on land next to 37 Wells Road.

The contemporary design of the proposal has been criticised by Malvern Town Council as being unsympathetic to the existing building and the immediate surroundings, an objection that has been echoed in submissions from local residents.

But Malvern Hills District Council planning officers say the scheme will do "less than substantial harm" to the surrounding area, and are recommending approval.

The plan is on the agenda for the district council's southern area development management committee, which meets on Wednesday at 7pm, at the Council Chamber, Avenue Road.