Dramatic plans to build more than 200 homes on a leafy village field in the south Bucks green belt have been condemned by community and conservation groups.

Inland Homes’ outline planning application for a 201-house estate on the edge of Little Chalfont – which lies at the heart of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – would bring “untold harm” to the area, according to a community group.

The field off Stony Lane is around half a mile from the village and a popular walking spot including a public right of way – but it could soon be home to hundreds of people if the plans get the green light.

John Aberson, planning field officer at the Chiltern’s Society, said: “The land has a clear function. It is an area of recreation for residents and visitors.

“For the field itself, the development would be devastating. It would bring untold harm that could not be mitigated.

“The national policy framework requires very special circumstances to affect harm to the Green Belt or other harm – there are no special circumstances here so it should not happen.

“The Chiltern Society’s view is that they should keep their hands off it. In my view the housing needs requires further review and is open to question.”

A conservation group has also highlighted the potential impact that the development with have on the chalk steam, a natural asset for which the area is known.

Lucy Murfett, Planning Officer for the Chilterns Conservation Board, said: “We will be objecting to this major housing development proposed on greenfield land in the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

“It neither conserves nor enhances the AONB. The River Chess between Latimer and Sarratt is perhaps the finest example of chalk stream valley landscape within the Chilterns.

“Any development here would degrade the valley landscape considerably and could have detrimental impact on the health of the river.”

In its statement to Chiltern District Council, Inland Homes said “Little Chalfont is not recognised as a village of particular historic character” and that the proposed housing plan would not harm it.

The housing firm added: “Chiltern District is faced with a significant need for new homes and a lack of available previously developed brownfield sites.

“As such the Council accepts that land currently within the countryside, such as the site, needs to be developed.”

The ambitious plan will be decided by CDC’s planning committee, should it be recommended for approval by the council's planning department, and it is hoped that a decision will be reached in July.

What do you think of the plan? Email william.burton@london.newsquest.co.uk.