A UK private school is planning to expand but neighbours fear it could impact traffic and wildlife.
Malvern College has proposed a new school building at The Lees, as part of a wider project, which could include a multi-use games area, a tennis court, play areas, car parking and footpaths.
What is the application?
The application is not yet seeking planning permission and is instead a request that has been submitted to Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) to see if an environmental impact assessment is required.
If MHDC rules that an assessment is not required then the school has said it plans to carry out the development under permitted development, rather than via a planning application.
The school added that some aspects of the project, aside from the new building, may require planning permission.
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Objections over traffic and wildlife
A number of objections have already been filed from those living nearby.
A concern for a number of residents is the impact that the new building could have on traffic.
“The road infrastructure in this area is already struggling with school and business traffic,” said Matt McConville in an objection.
“Adding more cars on the road that will be at the busiest time will cause significant issues.”
John Vaughan, who has also objected to the proposal, said: “The extra drop-off and pick-up journeys including staff and support deliveries and increased coach traffic trying to manoeuvre will add to the gridlock on narrow roads.
“The surrounding roads are already a cause of concern for the community.”
There are also concerns that, without an environmental impact assessment, there could be an adverse impact on wildlife in the area.
“Without undertaking assessments how then can we safeguard and protect the species of wildlife that inhabit this area, bats, fungus, bluebells, house martins etc,” wrote objector Clare Vaughan. “The trees and root radius of these mature trees must be protected.”
The deadline for responses to the application is July 23.
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School’s future plans
It comes as The Downs plans to close at the end of the 2026/27 academic year and move pupils to the Malvern College site.
The site of the prep school in Colwall, which is a feeder school to Malvern College, went up for sale last month.
The Downs announced in 2025 that the relocation was to protect the school’s future as it faced “headwinds”, including the rising cost of living, national insurance increases and the introduction of VAT on school fees.
