ARGUABLY the most contentious issue to hit Northwood in the last decade — plans for 66 houses — drew more than 150 objectors to a meeting last night.

The monthly meeting of Northwood Parish Council was packed with concerned locals.

Parish clerk Barbara Herbert said in the ten years since the council was established, she had never seen such a response from the public.

"We had more than 150 people, all objecting. The community is all against it," she said.

"In my ten years as clerk I have never seen anything remotely like what happened last night.

"Usually, if we get six people come along we think it's a lot. It was good to see that so many people care about Northwood."

The parish council recommended the plans are refused.

Kevin Richardson, who lives on Newport Road next to the proposed development, told the County Press that people were concerned about drainage, and site access.

"The drainage is not suitable already, so adding another 66 houses will be a disaster, and people are concerned about access — it would be an accident waiting to happen.

"I know the parish council have recommended refusal but I don't know how successful it's going to be.

"It feels very much as though residents are fighting a losing battle and we won't win the war."

The application has been submitted to the IW Council by Peter Harding.

People can comment on the plans until Friday, August 24.