Plans to build 46 holiday lodges near Malvern have been unveiled.

A proposal to convert a caravan site in Lower Howsell Road, Leigh Sinton, has been submitted to Malvern Hills District Council.

As well as the holiday lodges, the development would see the construction of a residential lodge for a site manager.

Planning documents say the lodges would be used throughout the year “for holiday purposes” and a new access road would be created further from the junction of Lower Howsell Road and Leigh Sinton Road than the existing field gate access.

“The proposed holiday lodges will enable tourism growth in the Malvern area which will support the local economy,” developers say.

“Visitors will contribute to the economic wellbeing of the village of Leigh Sinton through their financial contribution to the local economy.

“The accommodation has the capability of operating year-round meaning economic benefits will continue into the winter months. In addition, the running of the holiday lodge business will provide employment opportunities.

“The proposed lodges will provide visitors with high-quality accommodation to appreciate and enjoy the natural environment.

“The Malvern Hills are recognised for their high landscape quality, which is reflected in its area of outstanding natural beauty designation, and this attracts tourism to South Worcestershire.

“The location of the site therefore presents an opportunity to provide visitors with access to local countryside attractions to support their social and cultural wellbeing.” 

It is also claimed in the planning statement that the caravan site acts as a transition between the village and open countryside - and that the development would not detract from this as the site is on a “discrete parcel of land”.

“The plans also include a proposed footway connecting the entrance to the park with Leigh Sinton via Lower Howsell Road and connecting with the existing footway on the west side of Leigh Sinton Road at the edge of the village.

“Each caravan pitch will be provided with a parking bay adjacent to the caravan pitch and adjoining the internal road network.”