Over 800 Sign Housing Petition On No 10 Website

1.53.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 3rd Apr 2009

Over 800 people have signed a petition on the Prime Minister's website calling for a suspension of the controversial Regional Spatial Strategy for new housing development in South Worcestershire.

Local Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate, Richard Burt posted the petition on the No 10 website and said he was "delighted" with the support he had received.

"It is no surprise that hundreds of local residents have signed the petition. I know from my postbag and from attending public meetings how strongly people feel about the prospects of having developments the size of a small town built on the green corridors that define existing villages and communities.

"Villagers in Hallow and Kempsey are particularly aggrieved that the so-called 'preferred option' plan that may benefit Worcester City but will also destroy the integrity of their two villages.

"In Malvern, large scale development would threaten the unique character of the town that makes it such an attractive place to live and work.

"Liberal Democrat Leader, Nick Clegg has already pledged to suspend the current process and to give local councils and communities more say in deciding plans for future housing development.

"Now I am hoping that Gordon Brown will do what he always said he would do, and listens to what local people have to say.

"I look forward to proof positive from the Prime Minister that this is the case."