A developer’s plans for dozens of new homes on agricultural land in Somersham have been recommended for approval by council officials – despite concerns from residents about overdevelopment.

Neighbours of the application site, off West Newlands, have told Huntingdonshire District Council that the outline plan for 45 homes and a care home is unsuited to the site and will increase the amount of traffic and the risk of flooding in the area.

But the council’s planning officer Andrew Cundy has recommended that the plan is approved when it is considered by councillors on the development management panel on Monday.

In his report to councillors, Mr Cundy said: “The applicant has provided an initial layout plan incorporating a scheme of up to 45 dwellings, with the final layout reserved for future approval.

“In addition, the National Planning Policy Framework states that development proposals should optimise the potential of sites to create and sustain an appropriate mix of uses.

“In light of the above, it is accepted that a scheme of up 45 dwellings and a residential care home would be achievable on this site.”

Mr Cundy also stressed that the plan was only ‘outline’ and that the layout and design of housing would still need to be finalised and approved before any development could take place.

Somersham Town Council was among objectors to the proposed scheme, telling planning officials: “Councillors object to this application on the grounds of overdevelopment and inadequate parking provision on site”.

If approved, the six-acre development, put forward by Marlborough Properties, could feature 18 affordable homes and 27 private market properties, with space enough in the proposed care home for 50 residents.

Agents acting for the applicant told the council: “The care home will generate 40-50 full time jobs, many of which will be available for local and future residents in Somersham.”

Councillors will have the final say when the application is considered by the development management panel on Monday.