Malvern Town Council drainage plan refused by planners

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 18 Oct, 06:08 · Archive

Malvern Hills District Council has refused Malvern Town Council's application to change drainage arrangements for its community hub.

Malvern Town Council had sought permission to modify the approved plans for its development at the former pavilion site in Victoria Park. The main scheme, which includes new council offices, a café and community hub, was granted planning permission in 2023 and opened in 2024. However, the council's subsequent application to alter the approved drainage arrangements has now been refused by Malvern Hills District Council.

The town council wanted to replace a previously approved drainage swale with underground storage crates designed to hold excess surface water before releasing it into the main drain. Planning officers rejected the change after concerns were raised by the South Worcestershire Land Drainage Partnership. Drainage engineers said the proposed system would restrict water flow through an opening just 15mm in diameter, creating a significantly increased risk of blockage.

A nearby resident raised concerns about the revised drainage system's proximity to their property boundary, seeking assurances over responsibility if the system overflowed. They expressed concern that grass and debris from banks maintained by the town council could contribute to blockages. Sport England raised no objection to the proposals, stating they would not affect the park's sports pitches.

How it is being reported

• Part of Malvern community hub scheme refused over blocked drain riskPART of Malvern Town Council's plans for its new offices, café and community hub have been refused by planners.Malvern Gazette · 18 Oct, 05:12
• Part of Malvern community hub scheme refused over blocked drain riskPART of Malvern Town Council's plans for its new offices, café and community hub have been refused by planners.Worcester News · 18 Oct, 05:12

In this story: Malvern Town Council · Malvern Hills District Council · Victoria Park · South Worcestershire Land Drainage Partnership · Sport England · Malvern

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