DEVELOPERS look set to get the go-ahead for a controversial scheme to build 180 new homes on a greenfield site at Martlesham.

Bloor Homes’ proposals for the 27-acre site off Main Road were due to be discussed and decided by Suffolk Coastal councillors on Friday, but the meeting was postponed until later this autumn while the council waits to receive and consider an outstanding technical report about the application.

But more than 100 residents and Martlesham Parish Council have made strong objections to the project, claiming it is premature until the new development plan for the area is decided, saying it is against strategy, puts wildlife at risk, is open access land and the site of a Roman villa.

Planners are currently recommending approval for the project, which will include 59 affordable homes, a mix of rented properties and part-ownership, plus a village green and an extensive area of open space.

The developers could also have to pay �1.84million towards early years, primary and secondary education for children on the estate, plus contributions towards libraries and playspace.

Access to the development – to be built on land known as Pipe’s Field and a wooded area called Coop land – will be from Main Road, where there is currently a layby.

The Government is pushing for available land to be brought into use for housing, especially in district’s such as Suffolk Coastal where there is no development plan and a shortage of housing land.

Head of planning Philip Ridley said: “It is considered that the proposal does represent sustainable development as it is within the Ipswich Policy Area with good transport links, job opportunities and other community facilities and services close by, and provides affordable housing.

“Therefore the application is recommended for approval subject to a legal agreement relating to affordable housing, education, open space management and sports contribution.”

Bloor Homes reduced the number of houses it wanted to build by more than 100 after carrying out consultation.