FRESH proposals for a housing development on green fields in the Slad Valley must be vigorously opposed, a Stroud district councillor has said.

Clr Martin Baxendale, who represents the affected area, has opposed developer Gladman’s plans to build a housing estate on Baxter’s Fields, off Summer Street in Stroud.

The developer wants to create approximately 24 homes on the land, 30 per cent of which would be affordable housing.

Previous plans for up to 150 houses on the site were rejected by district council planners, a decision that was later upheld by a planning inspector at appeal.

The main reason for refusal was the effect the homes would have had on the landscape of the valley, which was made famous by Cider With Rosie author Laurie Lee.

Cllr Baxendale, the Green Party representative for Valley ward, said that even though the development was considerably smaller than the initial plans, it could still have a serious impact on the landscape.

He also warned that the development could create a worrying precedent for further building on green fields in the valley.

“Just because it’s down to 24 houses now doesn’t mean it couldn’t end up being many, many more in the future,” he said.

“This could just be the thin edge of a very thick wedge that could see the fields of the Slad Valley flooded with inappropriate development if we’re not careful.

“I will do all I can to make sure that this new proposal is refused on the same grounds as for the previous application.

“We are in a strong position to oppose it because it is contrary to our emerging Local Plan, recently voted through the district council, which aims to protect the green fields around Stroud and concentrate much needed new housing for local people on brownfield sites.”

A spokesman for Gladman said the housing scheme would bring a wide range of benefits to Stroud, such as better footpaths. The developer also argued that the influx of new residents would lead to an increase in spending in Stroud, boosting local businesses.

Gladman is currently holding a public consultation on its plans and asking people to comment.

A planning application will be submitted after the consultation.