LITTLEHAM residents have hit out at a proposal earmarking land at Rodney Close as a site for affordable housing.

LITTLEHAM residents have hit out at a proposal earmarking land at Rodney Close as a site for affordable housing.

Residents believe any development on the site could have a detrimental effect on the area.

The residents' anger comes after the district council recently announced it had identified the area as a site where 14 affordable houses and flats could be built.

It is one of six sites identified throughout East Devon for up to 180 affordable flats and homes.

The district council said it had worked closely with housing associations on the project.

Littleham residents are saying 'hands off our area' to the district council.

A spokesperson from Littleham's Associations, Residents and Friends (LARF) said: "It would be disappointing to lose this excellent amenity.

"We will certainly have to re-think some of the community events planned if the site is no longer in existence.

"It does seem rather counter productive to build on the very land that people are clamouring for in their lives, which is the ability to enjoy open spaces for recreational enjoyment."

A Littleham resident, who did not want to be named, said people were 'shocked' at the prospect of losing the amenity.

They said concerns had been raised that the area could suffer from overdevelopment and flooding.

The resident said: "The site has been used by many generations over the years and continues to provide an open space for all ages within the community and the wider community to enjoy.