PLANS to demolish a building in Malvern's historic Conservation Area and build a block of apartments on the site have been rejected by district council planners.

The application, by IE Developments, was for 10-12 Priory Road, next to the Splash and backing onto Priory Park, and called for the demolition of a building called the Coach House to make way for the apartments.

Malvern Hills District Council planning officers were recommending approval, but members of the southern area development control committee decided to reject it, on the grounds that the height and materials of the proposed development would harm the character and appearance of the conservation area and the views from Priory Park.

The decision has been welcomed by Malvern Civic Society, which had said the proposals would have had an adverse effect on Priory Park.

Society chairman Clive Hooper said: "The whole of the uppermost floor would have been visible over the top of the wall [on the eastern boundary of the park] and would have significantly obstructed the splendid eastern view from the park. It is good to note that MHDC has listened to the objections which have been raised about this application and has recognised the importance of keeping the Coach House.”

“The Civic Society has strongly supported the advice of Historic England, and particularly the Victorian Society, in opposing the proposed demolition which would have resulted in the loss of a notable historic building and unjustified harm to the significance of the Malvern Conservation Area.”

“The rejection of the planning application is a victory for those who care about the town's wonderful heritage, and it should now give the applicant, with the council’s support, the opportunity to explore the option of retaining and converting the Coach House, so as to preserve its intrinsic merits and the positive contribution it makes to the Malvern Conservation Area.”

The houses were originally built as gardeners' cottages but more recently were in use as council offices. They have been empty for several years.