Aerial shot shows huge development rising from ground

The first showrooms have been built but passers-by can already see the foundations in place for the next properties set for completion at the 30-acre site.

The homes have been designed around a 'village green' concept to fit in with the surrounding area.

But the scale of the scheme, near the A456 Kidderminster Road roundabout, has concerned residents living nearby who fear it will put extra strain on village services such as the school and medical practice.

There are also concerns about an increase in traffic around the site.

But developer Cala Homes, says the scheme, named Wychbury Fields, is proving popular with potential buyers with just seven of 17 properties left for purchase in phase one of the development.

Around 170 people attended an open event to view the showrooms last weekend.

Bosses said the development of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes had been designed to be in keeping with existing traditional architecture in Hagley.

Robert Monkman, sales and marketing director for Cala Homes Midlands, described it as a flagship development for the firm. He said: "We have designed a high quality scheme, which is traditional in design and sensitive to its village location."

As part of the project, Cala Homes will contribute £800,000 towards education in the area and £85,000 towards improvements at Hagley Surgery to help both cope with more residents, while £1 million was spent on the Kidderminster Road roundabout.

A 4,000 signature petition opposed the plans when they were first mooted in 2013.

But outline planning permission for the development was approved by Bromsgrove District Council, despite objections from Hagley Parish Council, before district councillors approved the detailed proposals in September 2013.

Among those objecting to the proposals was parish council chairman Steve Colella.

But he has since vowed to work with the developer to ensure the village benefits from the scheme.