RESIDENTS in a quiet cul-de-sac in Verwood say they plan to fight plans for a 65-home development behind their gardens.

The development on land off Ringwood Road and Parkland Close is for 39 houses, 18 social rented houses and eight intermediate housing. Some residents have objected to the plans, which they say will cause massive traffic problems on an already busy road.

Peter Knight, who lives in Ringwood Road, said: “We are not happy. Their intention is to bring the traffic out right on the bend opposite the cemetery. It’s a total disaster.”

Mr Knight said residents have also objected about the removal of 200-plus established trees, many subject to a Tree Preservation Order; and the implications to the wildlife living in that area.

“Nobody will argue that the field should be used but this is completely the wrong development for that site. It just seems crazy.”

Brenda Lawford, who lives in Parkland Close, said: “The volume of traffic a development like this would generate would be a nightmare.

“If they used our existing access onto Ringwood Road it would be chaos. And if they had another further up the access road it would be suicidal.”

Linden Homes say they have held an extensive consultation including two rounds of face-to-face meetings, a public exhibition, newsletters and set up a website.

The East Dorset District Council online application has received 105 comments, with a mixture both support and objecting to the plans.

In a letter to residents Cllr Toni Coombs said the scheme is on a green belt site and goes against current policy.

She said it has also not been identified for development in the Core Strategy. She said her and fellow county councillor Spencer Flower do not support the proposals.