Concerned residents have banded together to form an impromptu group opposing a new housing development that would destroy nearby woodland.

The group from Queens Road, Bury St Edmunds has raised objections to plans to build four three-bedroom homes to the rear of Queens Road as well as other associated works, such as access roads and parking provision.

Neighbours have held meetings among themselves and with planning officers from St Edmundsbury Borough Council to make their voices heard, with their objections focussing on woodland that would be destroyed should the development be given the go-ahead.

Adrian Tindall, one of those who has been instrumental in organising opposition, said: “The main concerns are the loss of the woodland. We believe it’s of ecological importance as it’s a rare survival of undeveloped woodland in the town.”

Queens Street is part of the Victoria Street conservation area, and Mr Tindall felt the woodland had a crucial value to the area as a whole.

He added: “There are other issues, mainly to do with vehicle access, parking and highways on Queens Road. At the moment the worst part of Queens Road is secure parking and traffic flow problems.

“How it will cope once the new development is there I don’t know, and that’s without even considering any construction traffic.”

Green Party county councillor for the area, Mark Ereira-Guyer, praised the residents’ concern for the environment.

He added: “Urban cramming like this really has an impact on the feeling and ambience of a residential area, it undermines community and individual wellbeing - and birdlife needs a home too.”

The planning statement submitted by agents 178a said: “The tree survey submitted in support of the application indicates that four trees are proposed to be removed. All of these trees are of low quality and have either a low or moderate visual amenity.

“Landscape proposals for the site will come forward in due course, that will include replacement planting that will significantly enhance the landscape value.”