Plans to build 130 homes in Sudbury have faced a backlash from green belt campaigners.

The outline planning application for homes on land north of Waldingfield Road, on the outskirts of the town, is the former Wheldon’s Orchard and is currently undeveloped.

The application has been made by Catesby Estates Limited and their have been concerns raised around the loss of green space, particularly in light of a planned 1,100 homes at nearby Chilton Woods.

One neighbour who commented on the planning application and objected said she had concerns over traffic. She said: “I appreciate housing is needed, however I am concerned by the size of the proposed development.

“We have already noticed the traffic is busier since the new community health centre and The Harp Meadow development were built and there seems to be more rubbish around.

“There is also the disruption to the wildlife. I moved here because this part of Sudbury is quieter, less built up and there is currently a bit of green land to be seen. Also, I understand there is going to be a bigger development near Tesco, how many more areas of countryside are going to be used in Sudbury?”

The development, which would include a play area and 35% affordable housing, is being objected to by the Sudbury Green Belt Action Group.

Nick Miller, who founded the group, said: “It is a beautiful spot, badly needed in my view, as it is green space for the Chilton Woods development and a continuation of the cycle-path round the ‘Prolog’ field from near Chilton Church. I think it will be truly a disgrace if Babergh approve this.”

The application will go to Babergh District Council’s planning committee at a later date. Suffolk County Council’s flood risk officer has issued a holding objection, with a range of concerns over plans for drainage.

The site was initially part of the Chilton Woods development, which is now a Suffolk County Council project, however it no longer forms a part of the long-delayed plans for 1,100 homes.

The applicant cites a severe lack of housing, which has led to Babergh failing to meet housing targets, in support of their plans. The lack of an up to date local plan means local policy will largely be disregarded in favour of national planning rules.