CONCERNS were last night raised over plans to build a large distribution warehouse between two villages.

Garden specialist Notcutts has applied to Suffolk Coastal District Council for permission to develop a nursery site in Yarmouth Road, between Melton and Ufford, near Woodbridge.

They want to build a 10,000metre2 warehouse to which their products will be delivered, stored and distributed.

Bosses have defended the scheme, saying they believe it is in keeping with the local area and vital for the future of their business.

But the proposal has angered local residents and last night the community was urged to fight the plans.

David Chenery, vice-chairman of Ufford Parish Council, claimed: “This application contravenes a raft of Suffolk Coastal District Council planning policies. It will also cause light and noise pollution to nearby dwellings, put more traffic through Ufford and Melton, commence HGV movements from 5am and impact on an adjacent ancient woodland.”

But William Notcutt, deputy chairman of Notcutts, defended the project, saying: “We think the scheme reflects our requirement for the long-term development of a successful Woodbridge-based national retailer.”

He said the estimated traffic flow would be no greater than the current use of the site when it is operating to full capacity as a production nursery. He added that the new warehouse was likely to employ 25 people.

Suffolk Coastal is hoping to make a decision next month.