COUNCILLORS overturned the advice of their officers and deferred a decision on outline plans for residential development at Broughton Park.
Flintshire County Council's planning and development control committee had been recommended to approve the preliminary application subject to a legal agreement.
But Cllr Chris Bithell argued the application, which could see 260 new homes, should be deferred to enable highway issues to be fully discussed.
A design brief for the triangular shaped site adjacent to Broughton Park envisages a modern residential neighbourhood with a strong local identity.
A figure of 260 new homes, including flats and houses, is mentioned with 78 affordable properties. The development would include a large area of public open space. Transport and highway measures could see cycling facilities and a pedestrian link to Broughton Hall Road.
A possible £500,000 could be paid for improvements to local education facilities.
The council says it also wants to see provision for a health centre.
Broughton and Bretton Community Council believes the development should be considered as part of a comprehensive plan.