VALUABLE green space could be lost if plans to build homes in Upton progress any further, say residents fighting to put a halt to the scheme.

More than 100 people turned out on Sunday to protest against the proposals which could see 16 affordable homes built on ‘precious’ areas of land around the area.

The campaigners from the recently-formed Save Our Spaces group, set-up to oppose the potential development, say the plans are “totally unsuitable” for the land, which backs onto some existing homes.

The group say East Borough Housing Association is in talks with Purbeck District Council to buy four plots in Dacombe Drive, Dacombe Close, Factory Road and Briarswood Close for the affordable homes.

And yesterday, residents turned out in force with placards and posters to show their opposition.

They marched through Upton onto the green in Dacombe Close, with others shouting out their support to them as they passed.

Mabel Fraser, who is leading the campaign said: “We have a petition signed by 200 residents and the full support of Lytchett Minster and Upton Council, which is unanimously against these proposed developments.

“While we recognise the need for affordable housing this is a clear example of a blinkered council pushing to meet its objectives and running roughshod over the National Planning Policy Framework.”

She said they have contacted the council for an answer over how the greenspace will be replaced but not yet received a response.

Resident Valerie Rawlings added: “If the council are providing a SANG (Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace) for the development at Policeman’s Lane in Upton, why are they taking ours away? It’s totally contradictory.”

In Factory Lane, the earmarked land is no more than a strip along the side of the grass verge, with the Dacombe Close green enjoyed as a recreation area for families and children to play safely.

David Green, 47, added: “We’re really pleased with the turnout. It just shows how committed our community is to making sure we keep these green spaces.

“Where they are proposing to build these houses will impact on people’s wellbeing.

“They’re just not thinking it through. It’s ludicrous.”

The group are also concerned about issues including parking, privacy, highway safety, tree preservation and lack of local infrastructure for the development.

One woman said she had been advised to pull out of buying a house which backs onto Factory Lane as a result of the scheme.

The plans propose building disability bungalows and housing on Factory Road, which is part of a busy industrial estate, with lorries and large vehicles using it continuously during the week.

No official plans have been submitted for permission as yet, although the matter was discussed at a June meeting of Purbeck District Council.