PROTESTERS fighting plans for hundreds of new homes in their town have submitted 800 letters of objection.
Members of the Darsdale Farm Action Group are concerned about Taylor Wimpey's plans to build 460 new homes on land off Chelveston Road, Raunds. They fear it will impact on road safety and wildlife, be out of character with the area and create pollution.
Members of the group have handed in their letters to East Northamptonshire Council which will make a final decision on the plans.
DFAG member Bernie Birkett, of Chelveston Road, Raunds, said: "Of major concern to the community is the increased traffic the proposed development would bring.
"This is already an accident blackspot and the extra traffic from this development can only make the situation worse.
"The inevitable traffic congestion will also increase pollution which will adversely affect children, the elderly and those with respiratory problems.
"In addition, the second new road to the development, next to Darsdale Home, is on a bend which is hardly an ideal situation for road users."
The development would include a mix of homes, areas of open space and lakes. Taylor Wimpey has said it would lead to improvements to the local footpath network to provide strong pedestrian and cycle access to the town centre.
The developers said, that in line with council policy, the proposals would include a significant number of affordable homes offering increased energy efficiency including the use of solar panels on 160 homes.
Taylor Wimpey spokesman Michael Fenton said: "We want to provide high quality homes to meet Raunds' local housing needs, and believe this site offers the best alternative for new housing in the town.
"We are confident the proposals we are bringing forward will deliver a high quality development in a truly sustainable location."
A decision on the development is expected to be made in the New Year.
To find out more from Taylor Wimpey's about its proposals for Darsdale Farm call 0800 180 4424.
Anyone who wants to find out more about the Darsdale Farm Action Group can call Mrs Birkett on 01933 623920 or Brian Hildreth on 01933 625276.