AN unconventional housing scheme for solar-powered homes in Pershore has been unveiled, and if it gets the go-head, it will be a first for the county.

The homes will be highly energy efficient, constructed off-site from steel and brick and then the various elements will be put together on location.

This method is a standard construction method in Sweden, as it cuts down disruption to the local community.

Cllr Robert Speight, chairman of the planning committee, said of the innovative proposal: “It’s nice to see Pershore leading the way with this sort of proposal for sustainable development.”

At least forty per cent of the homes will be affordable housing , ideal for a first-time buyer looking to get on the property ladder in a much sought after village.

Adam Norton, group land director at WElink said after the meeting: “This is one of the very first schemes to be undertaken by WElink and as such, it would certainly be the first in Worcestershire.”

Ann Dobins, spokeswoman for Pershore Town Council said after the meeting:”We recognise we need to build more homes and this plan is attractive as it’s environmentally sound and we welcome such an innovative proposal to be put forward formally.”

The site in Pershore is a ‘reserved matters application’, meaning the site already has an outline approval for 75 new homes to be constructed.

The next stage is a formal planning application to Wychavon District Council for consideration.

The presentation was received by councillors at the planning meeting held on April 4.