A STEERING group has formed to voice concerns about plans to build a new neighbourhood.

Residents in Ivel Road, Shefford have raised their worries about Bridge Farm – a new development being proposed by housing developers Bovis Homes.

The plan for the land east of Ivel Road is to erect 85 residential dwellings and commercial premises.

The group comprises of nine residents who will highlight concerns to Central Bedfordshire Council at a meeting on June 27.

Mike Evans, a resident of Ivel Road and a member of the resident group, said: “We are not against the development per se. However, we do have major concern on certain aspects of the development.

“The three main issues which are causing the steering group concern is Shefford’s infrastructure, public safety and the environment.”

According to the group Shefford does not have the infrastructure to support a new community of the size proposed due to a number of key issues. Among these are insufficient pupil places available at local schools. The group also feel the roads in the immediate vicinity of the development are inadequate.

Mr Evans added: “Both Ivel Road and Churchill Way are difficult to cross as a pedestrian and this will become more dangerous with increased amounts of traffic.”

Other concerns are the electricity supply in the area as well as the sewage system.

Dan Oliver, Bovis Homes regional design manager, said: “We have been proactive in communicating our plans to the Shefford community, have incorporated their feedback as far as possible in our revised designs now submitted to the council, and will continue to listen to their views and ideas.”

The group has in excess of 200 names to be submitted to Central Bedfordshire Council outlining their concerns based on the current plans.