PEOPLE in Honeybourne are increasingly divided over proposals for 48 new homes in a field used for an annual sheep auction for many years.

Battle lines are being drawn on the plans for the site off Station Road, despite the fact that developers Sharba Homes are yet to submit an application.

Paul Nevin, speaking on behalf of ‘The Friends of Honeybourne’ said: “Honeybourne, as a ‘grade one’ village, has to take a minimum of 75 houses over the next 15 years and I think Sharba Homes is offering a very good deal.

"This site has less constraints on it compared to others while the installation of a pedestrian crossing would make Station Road safer for school children, and would act as a traffic calming measure.

Plus, there is nowhere for children to kick a ball around in Church Honeybourne and this development would create an open space central to the village.

“I have lived here for 40 years and would like to see the best way forward for Honeybourne.”

Villager Carole Graves, who last week said she believed the development would lead to the loss of local heritage and identity, has been joined this week by others who are rallying in opposition.

Kath and Paul Sillence, from High Street, said: “We too agree that any development on this site will irrevocably alter the open ambience and feel to this part of the village.”

While Dave and Maureen Hopkins, of Station Road, said: “Development of the sheep field would be extremely harmful to the appearance of the area, putting unnecessary stresses on an already poor and overloaded sewerage system.”

Mrs Graves also confirmed she is planning a petition to oppose the plans.