A vision to build 80 homes in the sensitive Tud river valley has sparked concern among wildlife campaigners.

Norwich-based architect firm Feilden+Mawson has revealed proposals for development on land off Farmland Road in Costessey.

Details will be explained to residents at a community consultation event next week, but the project has already prompted worry among the Friends of the Tud Valley group.

The group was formed three years ago to object to a similar proposal off Townhouse Road, and members are determined to protect the 'beautiful' landscape and diverse animals of the valley around the River Tud, which flows between New Costessey and Old Costessey.

John Newby, chairman of the group, said: 'We will oppose any development that has an adverse impact on the landscape and the wildlife in the Tud Valley.

'We're not against new development and we accept there's a need for new housing, but Costessey has already got designated areas for new development like Lodge Farm and has accepted a lot of new housing over the last few years.'

Emily Barnston, a partner with Feilden+Mawson, said the proposed housing would be 'sympathetically landscaped' and 'low-density', with a mix of homes from two-bedroom to four-bedroom properties.

'There will be significant enhancement of public open space as a result of this proposal with areas for walks, for exercising dogs, for children to play in and for local people to be able to enjoy the natural environment,' she added.

A planning application has yet to be submitted, but the firm has held talks with planners at South Norfolk Council and Norfolk County Council.

An ecological survey has also been carried out on the site, which is currently in use as arable farmland.

People are invited to a community consultation event in the Jerningham Room of The Costessey Centre, in Longwater Lane, Costessey from 3pm to 6pm on Thursday, November 12.