RESIDENTS fear plans for nine new homes in Romsey could pose a threat to wildlife and create an “urban barrier”, cutting off animals.

A planning application was submitted to Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) to build a mix of two, three and four-bedroom homes in Cupernham Lane, which could be approved tomorrow.

Some residents have slammed the plans, claiming it could harm animals using the Fishlake Meadows site.

One resident said: “If the development goes ahead there will be a continuous ‘urban’ barrier between the Fishlake Meadows Nature Reserve and the lands east of Cupernham Lane. “This has implications for the movement and health of the wildlife in this immediate area.”

Roger Bunney, who lives on Grayling Mead, said: “The proposed development offers little environmental enhancement in its overdeveloped layout for the site size.

“The loss of mature trees further degrades the area and the eastern outskirts of the town are resembling planning destruction similar to new development areas of Eastleigh Borough Council.”

He added: “Continuous development has caused both noise and air pollution in residential areas and major congestion within Romsey town centre.

“Many streets are polluted and continuing development will only increase these problems within streets designed and constructed going back into the 19th century.”

This comes after the plans, submitted by Stratland Estates Limited, were delayed after planning chiefs were meant to decide on the application on Tuesday, July 14.

It is thought the delay has been caused by nitrogen pollution in the Solent, which has caused a backlog in planning applications.

It was revealed nitrogen from housing wastewater and agricultural sources accelerated the growth of algae, which is believed to be damaging protected wildlife habitats and bird species around the straight that separates the Isle of Wight and England.

Stratland Estates Ltd has been contacted for comment.