THE expansion of Pershore College has again been halted by councillors who refused to pass plans for a library and small animal care unit.

The plans were first deferred in January because councillors from Wychavon District Council's planning committee felt they were being kept in the dark about future plans for the site. They also objected to the siting of the library.

At a meeting of the committee last Thursday, councillor Malcolm Meikle accused the college of not paying attention to councillors' comments.

He said: "I am disappointed that not one bit of notice was taken to what the committee said before.

"My fear is that there's going to be a hotch-potch of buildings which may or may not be used for the purpose that has been identified and I cannot accept this application.

Councillor Margaret Rowley said: "I do think we're being a bit hasty. It's not particularly out of keeping with a number of different styles on the site."

Head of planning Jack Hegarty told councillors a decision should be made today.

Coun Meikle said he proposed refusal because of the siting of the library, when there were alternative possibilities, stating that the library could be moved to a better location.

He added: "The plan is grossly misleading. It does not show the ornamental garden that's laid out around the curtilage of the property."

Dr David Hall, principal of Pershore College, declined to comment.