Residents Rally to Save Wildlife Haven From Demolition

Residents in the village of Drakes Broughton, Worcestershire, are engaged in a fight to prevent a developer from demolishing a derelict property, which they contend has transformed into a haven for wildlife.

Aerial views of the four-bedroom home on Stonebow Road show it almost completely enveloped by trees and shrubs. Developers have received initial approval to raze the structure and erect seven new homes on the site, where the average house price is approximately £500,000. However, local residents are protesting the development, expressing concerns that the demolition will destroy one of the village's last remaining natural refuges.

The Wychavon District Council's planning committee has acknowledged the objections regarding the impact of developing the overgrown plot. Christine Craddock, a 51-year-old professional dog walker who has lived in the village for 16 years, described the significant changes she has witnessed.

"The village is unrecognisable compared to what it was eight or nine years ago," Craddock stated. "The population has more than doubled and houses are being built quicker and quicker. Almost every green space is being turned into newbuild estates."

She added, "I objected to this land being developed because it's sort of a symbol of hope that nature can reclaim what was there before. It might be a derelict house but there is so much nature in that site that it would be a real shame to lose it. We are a rural village yet this overgrown site is probably one of the last places you can see nature thriving."

Neighbour Ian Perry, 53, who has resided on Stonebow Road for four and a half years, echoed concerns about the potential disturbance to the area's wildlife, which he has observed to include muntjac deer and woodpeckers.

Another resident likened the village's expansion to a "rabbit warren" of new constructions. "There is so little green space in the village, it's becoming something of a rabbit warren of newbuild homes and rat runs," they commented. "The house has been empty for years and you can't get near it because it's literally wrapped in brambles but there are probably bats and all kinds of birds and wildlife inside."

This resident also noted the proliferation of tree species around the house, describing the site as "rather lovely to walk past." They expressed a sentiment shared by many that if the land is approved for new homes, the demolition of the house appears inevitable. Beyond wildlife concerns, worries have also been raised about increased pressure on the existing drainage system and worsening traffic congestion.

Last week, planners granted developers permission in principle to demolish the property. A final decision is anticipated in the coming months. Council records indicate the house was previously owned by Marjory Turvey, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 91. It is also understood that the property may be subject to a restrictive covenant that could potentially prevent its demolition.

The land is now owned by property developer Robert Turner, whose plans to clear the site for new housing have generated significant opposition from local residents. Mr. Turner has been contacted for comment.