CONCERNS about drainage were raised by residents of a south Herefordshire village as planners considered a scheme for three new homes there last week.

The applicant wanted outline permission to build three homes with garages on land south of Ladywell Lane in Kingsthorne, a village identified for growth in Herefordshire Council's Core Strategy.

The committee heard however, that there were three main areas of concern for residents – regarding drainage, visual aspects and the narrow country lanes which village residents have to use.

Ward member, Councillor David Harlow, said: "The particular thing I would like you to consider is the drainage aspects. Residents feel it would add to existing drainage problems. For me, this is a real area for discussion today."

However, Cllr Baker said members had to reply on the advice of experts who had not raised any objections to the plan.

"For anyone living in a rural part of Herefordshire there will be problems accessing major roads. It happens to most of us here and we cope with it," he said.

"With that in mind I'm afraid that although I have sympathy for the local member and the residents I cannot see any reason why we cannot approve this application."

Cllr Norman added that she was uneasy about the scheme, particularly in light of the comments from residents regarding drainage.

The committee approved the application in accordance with the case officer’s recommendation.