More than 370 people have objected to plans for 255 homes at top of Radstock already "stretched beyond capacity".

Following a decision this week, the application for Manor Road in Writhlington will be decided by Bath and North East Somerset Council, even though 35 of the homes are across the Mendip border.

Applicant Gladman was denied permission for 160 properties on a 10-hectare site north of Old Road in 2019 following more than 200 objections.

Its revised £25million outline plans said it wants to develop on that land and another eight-hectare parcel south of the road, describing the "high quality, sustainable new neighbourhood" as a "logical extension" to Writhlington.

The firm said: "The development of the site as proposed would be both suitable and sustainable. It will help to deliver much needed new, quality, family homes, in a community where people wish to live, in a suitable and sustainable location close to existing public transport, shops, employment opportunities and community services."

But objectors gave a very different view.

Bridget Carter said: "This destructive development will cause unnecessary impact on the local community, outweighing any possible benefits.

"The local road infrastructure cannot cope with the level of traffic it is expected to currently deal with, let alone the comings and goings of another 255 households.

"There are currently minimal job opportunities in this area, the people living in these new houses will be driving to Keynsham, Bath and even further afield adding to the unacceptable level of traffic on the local roads."

The Writhlington Action Group said the development would "change our village forever".

Objecting "wholeheartedly", Robert Ford said: "The road system in the area cannot sustain an extra 500 cars. It is already very dangerous. The wildlife that thrive on the land will be wiped out

"The land is green belt. Why is this even in consideration? Please don't let this money-grabbing company ruin our village for their own gain and nobody else's!"

Emma Slade said it was "beyond belief" that an application for 255 homes was put forward when the smaller scheme was rejected.

Up to 30 per cent of the new homes will be affordable, a total of 76.

Ms Slade said: "Affordable housing needs to be provided but this does not have to be at the expense of the environment, our ability to produce food locally, and the safety and mental wellbeing of the people already living here. Please consider brownfield and areas with better infrastructure, closer to good employment and leisure opportunities."

BANES Council has given a target decision for the application of March 4.

Councillors this week agreed for the authority to accept devolved decision making powers from Mendip District Council to avoid the risk of inconsistent decision making.