MEMBERS of the public have had their first glimpse at a plan to build more than 1,000 homes on the outskirts of Hereford.

Architects drawing up ideas for the near-100 hectare site at Three Elms held exhibitions and workshops at Whitecross High School this week.

About 230 people attended the events where they were told of plans for a 200-place primary school, a community hub and employment land.

"It's been a good turnout," said Charles Campion, a partner with London-based 'masterplanners' John Thompson & Partners who led the workshops.

"People are interested to see the proposals. There has been a lot of talk during the workshops about community and that is very important to us."

The development would be accessed by three main junctions on Kings Acre Road, Roman Road and Three Elms Road.

A planning application is expected to be submitted in September with work likely to start in 2017 should permission be granted.

The proposal has been described as an “urban extension” by principal landowners the Church Commissioners, which manages an investment portfolio to support the Church of England.

The group has been developing the plans over the past seven years.

The Commissioners say the plan is closely linked to Hereford's proposed relief road with about 500 homes to be built before the road opens and a further 580 once it is completed.

The site is to the west of Three Elms Road on land stretching from the border of Whitecross School up to the Roman Road next to the Beech Business Park and out to the new livestock market.

It then runs south to Kings Acre Road stretching either side of Huntington Lane.

Many of those attending expressed concerns about the increase in traffic to the already-busy Whitecross Road while others did not want to see the rural beauty of Huntington Lane lost.

The plans have also been criticised by Independent Group leader Cllr Bob Matthews who has called for more brownfield sites to be used for development.

“It is quite alarming to imagine the devastating effect that this development will have on what is, at present, a very tranquil and relaxing area for walkers and cyclists alike," he added.