More than 800 homes to built on contaminated land

Campaigners have said the development will harm wildlife and local people

Plans for 800 homes to be built on contaminated land have been given council approval despite hundreds of objections.

Knowsley Council's planning committee have given gave the green light for the new homes in Kirkby, Merseyside.

But residents near the brownfield site south of Cherryfield Drive fear the health implications of disturbing asbestos on the land.

Council leaders have said the development is a "great opportunity" and have insisted it will be safe.

Opposition group Kirkby Residents Group (KRG) have lobbied the council to refuse planning permission and pointed out the potential impact on local habitats for foxes, bats, voles and hedgehogs as well as the disturbance of hazardous materials.

Campaigner Shaun Lever said: "This development will unearth three types of asbestos and other dangerous contaminants.

"The vital risks and impacts have not been effectively addressed."

Fellow campaigner Neil Dunne added that the development "could contribute to future chronic illnesses in Kirkby".

A council report noted that "there is contaminated land on the site" but said that with care during building "the potential effects would be negligible".

Council leader Graham Morgan said: "People have been crying out for houses in Kirkby and hopefully the younger generations will move into these houses, and the next generations will bring their children up into these new houses as well."

The plans by developer Barratt & David Wilson Homes includes a provision for 80 affordable homes.

At one time, Premier League side Everton considered the site for their new ground.

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