Controversial plans to build 40 new homes on the edge of Gloucester were being discussed by Tewkesbury borough councillors this morning.

R.Keene and Sons who own nearby Over Farm want to put up the homes on agricultural land south of Oakridge, Highnam.

But the parish council and many villagers are strongly objecting to the scheme claiming it will harm the rural nature of the area and overload local roads.

Highnam Parish Council says the proposed development would set a precedent for new development; raise highway safety and traffic congestion concerns; result in an over-supply of affordable housing in the area and be contrary to the Highnam Neighbourhood Plan.

However Tewkesbury Borough Council officers say in a report: "It is considered that although the development would cause a degree of harm to the rural landscape, the submitted illustrative masterplan demonstrates that a sensitively designed form of development could be secured.

"It is considered that the proposal would achieve a good mix of housing and would deliver much needed affordable housing in a location which is in close proximity to employment, existing housing, community facilities and is well served by public transport."