Worcestershire housing plan sparks infrastructure concerns

Cllr Alan Amos Opposes Housing Plans in Worcestershire

Cllr Alan Amos spoke against plans for 22,000 homes in Worcestershire as part of the South Worcestershire Development Plan (SWDP). He argued that there is not enough consideration for supporting infrastructure, including roads, rail, and healthcare services.

After an extraordinary full council meeting at Worcester Guildhall, the Reform UK councillor stated that the housing plans for 80,000 new residents should not proceed without new public infrastructure to support them.

Amos, who is the county councillor for Bedwardine and city councillor for Lower Wick and Pitmaston, claimed that officials did not answer his questions about the lack of infrastructure for such significant development.

He warned, “So, we can expect even longer waits to get a doctor’s appointment or hospital treatment; and to have much more congestion and gridlocked on our roads.”

Responses from Other Councillors

Liberal Democrat Cllr Jessie Jagger remarked, “We all agree that creating new homes and employment opportunities will require updates in infrastructure and resources allocation.” She noted that this has been part of many discussions held privately.

Cllr Seb James, deputy party chair of the Worcester Conservatives, criticized Amos, saying, “Alan has once again failed to use his position to bring about any meaningful action.” He added that Amos praises Reform but does not lobby the Government effectively.

Cllr Tor Pingree, a Green Party councillor for St Clement Ward, pointed out that Amos abstained from voting on the SWDP. She stated, “Without a clear plan, developers will be free to build on any available space.”

Pingree also mentioned that Amos complained about the lack of funding for a new high school while voting against funding for a new school in Worcester. She questioned, “Does he have a secret identical twin who comes to meetings to vote against his own ideals?”

Cllr Pat Agar from the Labour Party responded to Amos’s claims, stating, “Contrary to Cllr Amos’s view that it is completely controlled by national government, the plan has been put together by the districts.” She emphasized that the plan is evidence-based and aims to protect green spaces and wildlife habitats.