Plans have been submitted to knock down a former Royal British Legion club in a village near Malvern.

The applicants want to build a four-bedroom home in its place.

The building, in Coverfield in the centre of Hanley Swan, has been empty for five years since the legion’s closure.

According to the design statement submitted to Malvern Hills District Council, “the application is for the demolition of the existing building and the erection of a two-storey four-bedroomed dwelling with integral garage for two vehicles.

Malvern Gazette: The plans have split opinion among villagersThe plans have split opinion among villagers (Image: MHDC)

“The building is two-storey and comprises at ground floor a hallway, which is accessed from the east-facing elevation, snug, utility room and open plan kitchen, dining room and lounge.

“There is a covered passage beyond which is the garaging. At first floor there are four bedrooms.”

The plan has split opinion among villagers.

Joanne Hamilton, commenting on the application, said: “I think this would be great for the village.

“The pond and green are so lovely that it would only add to the heart of Hanley Swan and complete the vista.

“It is currently overgrown and looks shabby. A newm well thought out property will bring new life in.”

But Jean Pennant said: “The proposed building would be out of keeping with the site at the centre of the village.

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“The current building is single story and does not impinge on the pond and surrounding area visually and should be replaced, if this is what has to happen, with a building better in keeping with the site.”

Hilary Fowler said given the “excessive development in Hanley Swan since 2010” that smaller homes should be encouraged.

“This site would be ideal for two small single storey dwellings, for potentially those with mobility impairment through age or disability,” she said.

“Hanley Swan has a unique heart to the village, with a green and pond, the vista of this should be preserved.”

Paul Brazier said the current single-storey building is “barely visible” from the pond and suggested should be replaced by a two-bedroom, one-storey house.