Harriett Baldwin today called for a clear Green Belt plan to protect vital countryside and secure a buffer zone around Worcester city. The MP urged local planners to adopt a plan which prevents continued urban sprawl and protects the borders of villages. Councillors from Malvern Hills District Council met last week and agreed to consult the public in September on plans to create new areas for housing and employment across south Worcestershire. The plan will see an expansion of Worcester in all directions. Harriett commented: “Villages like Lower Broadheath, Hallow and Kempsey are distinct and cohesive communities. “As the County town grows, I am urging the south Worcestershire councils to use the new powers that they will be given under the Localism Bill to preserve the character of our villages around Worcester by formally designating areas of Green Belt. “When the consultation starts on planning in south Worcestershire in September, I will be meeting with representatives from the local authorities to make sure that Green Belt plans are on the agenda.”