PLANS for a major regeneration in the centre of Malvern have been given the green light by councillors.

At this week's planning meeting, councillors approved plans for 17 new homes and three new shops to the rear of the Foley Arms and Edith Walk.

This means the site, described as an "eyesore" by one councillor, will now have four buildings demolished to make way for the new homes.

Property developer Elevate wants to transform the land at the rear of the Foley Arms Hotel, a disused car park, with new housing and shops.

Speaking at the meeting, ward councillor Cynthia Palmer said she was glad to see the plans finally come to the committee.

She said: "For the last 21 years this site has been a forgotten eyesore in the middle of the town.

"It has been identified as a site in the SWDP and the Malvern Neighbourhood Plan, though it is a difficult site.

"The application has been supported by Malvern Town Council, though they have asked for adequate protection for pedestrians in Edith Walk.

"This proposal will provide a much more attractive frontage to Edith Walk and the 17 dwellings will add to our housing requirements.

"The residents will live local and shop local, so I would like to propose we approve it."

Cllr Palmer's proposal was seconded by Cllr Beverley Nielsen, who also welcomed them as a new look for the town.

She said: "This new site will provide urban renewal and regeneration to our town."

Councillors voted to approve the plans, with 12 voting in favour, one voting against and no abstentions.

The site is located in Great Malvern town centre and covers approximately 0.45 hectares.

It is bordered by the Foley Arms Hotel to the west, several two/three storey buildings fronting Worcester Road and Edith Walk to the south-west, and a supermarket to the east.

The council also confirmed the nearby Theatre of Small Convenience, a former public toilet converted into an entertainment venue, will be kept as part of the plans.