A CONTROVERSIAL plan to build up to 2,000 houses on Little Sutton farmland has been submitted to the council.

A Cheshire West and Chester Council spokesman confirmed an application had been received from developer Redrow.

But petitioners have already gathered more than 3,000 signatures opposing the proposed development on land south of Ledsham Road.

Supporters of Ledsham & Manor Action Group (L&MAG) spent March and April knocking on doors in a bid to boost their cause.

And on Saturday they gathered at the proposed site to hand the petition to local councillor Gareth Anderson.

Action Group spokesman Graham Phipp said: “This magnificent effort, together with a further 361 signatures via an e-petition, making 3244 in total, sends a strong message to the council that local residents do not want to see any houses built on the land in question.

“The recent Localism Act encourages local people to make their voices heard on any matter likely to affect their quality of life and general well-being.

“The petition demonstrates very clearly what local democracy should mean and it is hoped that the council will recognise this and listen to what local electors are saying by rejecting any proposals for houses on the land in question.”

L&MAG supporters say the high-quality farmland should be reserved for food production.

They also argue the development would lead to an increase in traffic volume, a risk of flooding and poor drainage, damage to ecology and the potential exposure of new residents to health and safety risks.