Residents in Lancaster fight against plans for 80 new homes on their doorstep

Oakmere Homes of Kendal are seeking planning permission for the major scheme on a meadow bordering Watery Lane and Whernside Road, north of Torrisholme Road.

Skerton West city councillors are backing the residents and have held two online meetings with them to discuss tactics.

Objections to the plan lodged with Lancaster City Council were approaching 100 this week.

Residents say the development is too large and they are worried it could lead to flooding and increased traffic dangers.

But one of their main concerns is the loss of the valuable and much appreciated field and its wildlife alongside Barley Cop Wood, Lancaster Crematorium and Vale of Lune Rugby

Club.

Couns Jean Parr and Mandy King have submitted their own objections.

Coun Parr, who lives within a stone's throw of the site, is concerned about how much more traffic would use Watery Lane.

Eighty families would put pressure on school places and doctors' surgeries, she said.

She is planning to address the planning committee when the application comes before them.

Another point made by Coun King is the prospective loss of beautiful views for most residents and the impact on the skyline for others.

Concerns have been expressed by the city council's environmental protection team that any impact should be prevented or minimised.

An existing house in Watery Lane would have to be demolished to make way for a new access to the development.

The plan includes the creation of open space and an equipped play area.