Mixed views were expressed over an outline planning application for 200 new homes in Halesworth.

Eastern Daily Press: Public exhibition for outline proposals for 200 homes on land at Chediston Street, HalesworthPublic exhibition for outline proposals for 200 homes on land at Chediston Street, Halesworth (Image: Archant)

A public exhibition was held at the Rifle Hall in the town today, giving the public their first chance to see the plans.

The site is located to the south and west of Chediston Street next to Roman Way.

Richard Ashbourne, 34, who lives close to the site said: 'I'm not too surprised, councils always have the view that there needs to be more housing.

'I think it is a shame as they will likely go through I oversee the site and I worry about green spaces being continually taken up my large housing projects. It will also put a great deal of pressure on the town.'

Eastern Daily Press: Public exhibition for outline proposals for 200 homes on land at Chediston Street, HalesworthPublic exhibition for outline proposals for 200 homes on land at Chediston Street, Halesworth (Image: Archant)

The housing scheme proposes 200 homes of mixed size and type, 35pc of which would be affordable.

It also includes an access roundabout, open space including play space, footpaths and sustainable drainage.

Richard Brown who will submit the application for the developers Christchurch Land and Estates said: 'There have been a lot of people who have acknowledged that there is a need for housing and of course a few with concerns such as those overlooking the site.

'We are trying to keep with the integrity of the current site, there will be a lot of open green space with paths.

'We will now spend a few months compiling the reports and hope to submit an application by May or June time.'

A large amount of people turned up to the exhibition to view the plans.

Gerald Burroughs, who has lived in the village since 1955 said: 'I do hold concerns about these plans.

'200 homes will mean an extra 300 cars locally would imagine. There will also be an increased pressure on local services and surely someone will have to build a new supermarket in the town.'

Jessica Brown, 62, said: 'I am not opposed to the plans as such. I just hope the developers know what they are doing and that the right call is made for Halesworth.'

What do you think of the plans? Email kieran.lynch@archant.co.uk