Campaigners oppose new housing plan near Swindon's Lydiard Park

People say they will oppose plans for 91 houses near Swindon's Lydiard Park.

Developers Persimmon have begun a public consultation over plans for homes at nearby Hook Street.

A larger proposal by Primegate Properties to build 175 houses near the park in 2011 was turned down by the local authority.

Resident Julian Leggett said the area was Swindon's "jewel in the crown", and the houses would be seen from the park.

He added: "If they cover the top half of the crest in hard standing concrete, no matter how much they say they are going to store storm water, we are going to have an increase in water coming down the hill at us."

Lorraine Williams, of the Lydiard Fields Action group, said: "We're very disappointed about the new proposals and our main concern is that there shouldn't be any houses built on the land because of the potential damage it will do to Lydiard Park.

"Our aim is to protect the park. It's a little bit of countryside in Swindon that everyone can enjoy."

Steve Roche, of Persimmon Homes, said: "It's very early stages. We're emphasising that it's a draft proposal.

"We're holding consultations in the community and giving everyone an opportunity to visit, look at the proposals and give us feedback, then we will consider all that information."