Residents against housing project

A plan for 1,200 new houses on a large area of greenbelt land in south Nottinghamshire is being opposed by a local residents association.

Rushcliffe Borough Council will decide on the proposal for Sharp Hill in Edwalton on Thursday evening.

A government planning inspector has recommended against the project, but the local planners have supported it.

Residents' spokesman Malcolm Baker, who opposes the plan, said it will create traffic problems in the area.

He said: "It is a sylvan setting and an attractive approach to the city of Nottingham - we object on many grounds including concerns about greenbelt, wildlife and transport."

He added the project will result in 8,400 extra vehicles on the roads every day.

Jim Collinson, planning officer for Rushcliffe Borough Council, said the council has to find 5,000 homes by 2021 under long-term plans.

"We feel traffic can be accommodated provided there are improvements to roundabouts and junctions."