A developer is seeking outline planning permission for more than 130 new homes between Bluntisham and Colne.

R2 Developments has applied to Huntingdonshire District Council for permission for up to 135 homes on agricultural land off Colne Road, on a site that sits just to the north of Bluntisham.

According to the plans, the development would feature a mix of housing as well as village greens, open spaces, a play area and “ecological enhancements” at the borders of the site.

Developers have also proposed a new car park at the entrance to the area, to help “ease congestion at peak school times”.

According to the developer, a public exhibition of the plans took place in February and was “very well attended”, with feedback received from residents factored into the subsequent application.

In its submission to the council, the developers said: “The development will bring forward much-needed family housing to the area supporting social and economic aspiration. The site also delivers valuable ecological enhancements and open community areas for the enjoyment of new and existing residents.

“The scheme reflects the local character, is low density compared to general new

residential development and meets all the relevant policy requirements.”

But there have been objections to the proposals, with parish councillors in Colne saying that the villages are ill-equipped to cope with the increase in population.

In its submission to planners, Colne Parish Council said: “The village infrastructure cannot support so many new houses. Local schools are full. Roads out of Huntingdon, St Ives and Earith area are grid locked morning and evening.

“Hinchingbrooke Hospital is overloaded, and the exit near St Helen’s [School] will cause chaos in the morning and pose a danger to children.

“[The development] ruins a traditional Cambridgeshire village. There is little local employment available and there are plenty of new houses in Cambridge, Northstowe and Alconbury.”

Regarding potential traffic issues in the villages, the developer added that mitigation measures were being considered, adding: “Discussions are being undertaken with

Cambridgeshire County Council to determine what improvements will be necessary at local junctions to accommodate any impact from this development.”

To view the planning application, and to have a say, log on to www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk.