ANGERED residents have presented a 50-page petition to Wyre Forest District Council, objecting plans to build 85 homes on green belt land in Stourport.

After launching their petition last month, the 'Friends of Patrick's Field' action group has handed over its official objections to the council's Local Plan, namely proposals to designate a field off Yew Tree Walk for 85 homes.

Residents say the land, known as Patrick's Field, is home to badgers, foxes, rare reptiles and dozens of species of birds and butterflies, which would all be at risk if development went ahead.

Friends spokesman Mike Williams said: "We have handed over a 50 plus-page dossier setting out our objections to the Local Plan. This followed a community drop-in session organised by the group at a local community centre which overwhelming rejected the plan to re-zone the land for housing.

"The dossier was backed by a petition signed by almost 200 local residents calling for the council to reconsider. In addition, many residents have also submitted objections in their own right."

The group also met with Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier earlier this month to discuss their concerns.

Mr Garnier said: "I am completely sympathetic with their plight. Having heavy plant trundle down what amounts to an alley between houses via a quiet housing estate does seem rather excessive.

"I am also concerned that this is a late addition and that there needs to be a proper period of consultation to make sure it does not meet legitimate concerns before any approval."

He added: "I am planning to take this up with the planners to ensure that they are on working correctly with the group."

Councillor Ian Hardiman, Wyre Forest District Council’s cabinet member for housing, previously told The Shuttle the Yew Tree Walk site was submitted to the Local Plan as part of the preferred options consultation, and is classed as previously developed land.

The council said officers will be carefully reviewing all comments raised over the next few weeks and picking up any concerns raised.