CAMPAIGNERS fighting plans to build 2,000 homes that would stretch into the heart of the countryside are taking their protest to the streets of Suffolk.

No Adastral New Town (NANT) is urging Suffolk Coastal District Council to reject BT’s proposals for its site at Martlesham Heath, near Ipswich.

Plans have been put forward to build 2,000 homes at Adastral Park along with a health centre, hotel, park, community centre, shops, caf�, pub and new primary and secondary schools.

It would also include 60,000 sqm of extra employment area that would create around 2,000 jobs.

The scheme would stretch 160 hectares (395 acres) and would be very close to the Deben Estuary, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

NANT believe the project will swamp the area - bringing in an extra 5,000 people - and devastate the surrounding countryside, while it has also called on the district council to review its housing strategy.

The group will march through the streets of Woodbridge on Saturday, starting at 11am from the Station Road car park close to the swimming pool.

Janet Elliot, who has been organising the protest said: “It will be a friendly and family orientated occasion with marchers aged from eight to 90. We are hoping for a good turnout and I would ask anyone who might be interested to come along. It is a chance to raise awareness, let people know what is going on and give out information.”

NANT believe the plans will cause neighbouring rural communities to lose their character, put increased pressure on the already busy A12 and A14, have a devastating impact on the Deben Estuary and could put tourists off from visiting the area.

Katherine Riddell, publicity officer for NANT, said: “We feel the plans could have huge ramifications.

“We are not against development or anti the district council or BT. We recognise there is a need for new homes - particularly affordable housing, which a lot of the rural communities are crying out for.

“However we want the council to carry out a housing review to see what is needed and where. That way it can be built in the right areas and ensure Suffolk hangs on to its special character.”

Suffolk Coastal District Council is currently waiting for details of future national planning policy following the change of government before progressing the plans further.

“Until there is clarification from the Government about its future planning policies, or we have completed our work on assessing and agreeing our district’s future housing needs, we are in no hurry to reach a conclusion on such applications,” a spokesman said.

For more information on NANT or to sign the group’s on line petition visit www.noadastralnewtown.com.