By Anna Whittaker, Local Democracy Reporter
Plans for a huge new housing estate have been met with criticism from almost 150 nearby residents.
The scheme proposes 1,250 homes on more than 100 hectares of agricultural land to the south of Ordsall, near Retford.
The development would also include a local centre, a school, community hub, sports pitches, care home and a community park.
Applicant Howard (Retford) Limited said the development would consist of “beautifully and imaginatively designed homes” in a site which “enhances the natural environment”.
But objectors have raised issues over privacy, wildlife, traffic and flooding.
Some of the 147 objections submitted the same letter to the council, which described how the development would impact wildlife in the area, which has been known to be home to deer as well as birds.
It added: “There would be a massive increase of traffic in the area, not only would this be detrimental to the environment but also to the health and safety of the current residents who live in the area.
“Retford as a whole cannot cope with any further increase of traffic.
“Many people use this area for walking, and it provides huge benefits for people’s mental health having what feels like the countryside on their doorstep.
“The fields to the south of Ordsall also flood when there is heavy rainfall.”
Another objection from residents Nicholas and Christine Parker explained how they fear they will be overlooked by two and three storey properties.
They wrote: “The properties in our cul de sac are all bungalows which people have purchased to enjoy their retirement. The last thing we need is a large development built up to our boundaries.”
The applicant said the development would provide local jobs, “genuinely affordable” homes, and recreational and shopping facilities.
There would also be affordable and starter homes available.
Documents with the plans stated that the site will “include a diverse housing offer that will meet the needs, priorities and preferences of a wide range of people”.
They added: “Moreover, the proposed development will include new community infrastructure as defined by the Council. This will include a primary school, village centre, accessible public open space, sports pitches and a
community hub.
“The proposed development represents a holistically planned new neighbourhood which enhances the natural environment and offers high-quality affordable housing and locally accessible work in beautiful, healthy and sociable context.”
A spokesperson for the applicant said: “Ordsall South is a site identified for growth by Bassetlaw District Council. A planning application has been submitted as this is the next stage in the process.”
The plans will be decided on by Bassetlaw District Council.