PLANS to build 170 homes in Abingdon have alarmed neighbours.

Developer Hallam Land Management wants to build the two and three bedroom properties on a field between Virginia Way and Stonehill off Drayton Road.

But residents invited to comment on the plans say the development site is on a flood plain and fear it could lead to more fields being built on.

Steve Fraser, of Overmead Road, said: “We have always said in the past that a development here would be ridiculous, there is a sewage works nearby, and these fields are in a flood plain.”

Mr Fraser said the last time the fields flooded the water came close to his house.

He was also worried the field in front of his house could be next for development.

The 50-year-old said: “None of us would agree to this, it would destroy something beautiful out there. “Our field is the one behind and who is to say they won’t come down here next?

Pat Thomas, 64, also from Overmead Road, said: “They will have a war on their hands, we don’t want it at all. These fields have been here since before I was born, I see deer in there, and badgers, foxes and hedgehogs – where are they all going to go?

“If they start building up there, they will have access and our field will be next.”

Hallam Land Management is holding a public exhibition on its proposals tomorrow at the Roysse Room in the Guildhall, between 1pm and 8pm.

It is seeking the views of local residents and members of the development team will be on hand to answer questions.

District and town councillor Aidan Melville said: “They have kept this under the radar. For a start it is in the part of town which doesn’t have great transport infrastructure. “It already gets so congested with traffic , it is a no brainer, plus it is prone to flooding.”

He added that he would be writing to the developer to “outline his thoughts”.

But not everyone is opposed to the plan.

Gary Gill, 46, from Northcourt Road, said: “It’s a good thing. Housing has got to be built. You will always get people whinging and saying not in my back yard.”

Hallam spokesman Andy Birch said: “The exhibition we are holding will be an opportunity for local people to discuss the principle and proposals for the site, and offer feedback to the development team.

“Abingdon is a sustainable location and new homes are required for the existing population, including affordable homes, and to support growth in the local economy.

“We already understand many of the technical issues relating to the site, but we will be exploring ways to offer benefits to the local community such as through improving the local highway network.”

An application will be submitted to Vale of White Horse District Council at a later date.