A MAJOR new housing development is set to be built on land at North End Lane, Malvern.

David Payne Homes Ltd is close to winning permission for 24 detached, semi-detached and terraced units and a 10-unit apartment building on the half hectare site.

Outline approval for the development was granted in 2003. An application to finalise details was ref-erred to Malvern Hills District Council's southern area development control committee following objections from residents.

They were concerned that the density and height of the two-and-a-half storey development would create an "overcrowded ghetto", and that the privacy of existing home owners would be compromised.

However planning officer Andrew Moody's report said the proposed density, layout and design of the dwellings was acceptable.

Members delegated the decision to head of sustainable environment David Murray for approval, subject to design amendments being agreed.