Residents have expressed their anger at proposals to build six bungalows on green space on Portland.

The Echo previously reported that Betterment Properties recently put forward proposals to build the six bungalows and accompanying parking slots on a green space at Haylands, Portland.

However, some residents have reacted negatively to the idea and have started a petition challenging the proposed development.

Regarding the proposal to develop on the green space, Haylands resident Jeff Proctor, 76, said: "I felt sick, quite seriously. This is an asset to the bungalows."

Concerns raised included the potential reduction of space and access for the street's existing bungalows. Many of the residents of these homes have mobility difficulties.

Jill Proctor, 78, said: "It is criminal. This road here is so congested. It is going against all the modern thinking about green space, wildlife and play areas. It is going against all that thinking."

Alan Baker, 70, who lives across the road from the site, said: "I was devastated that they would even consider it. I would say to them 'forget it'. They are going to devastate the estate. They will squash them in wherever they can. It is terrible. I feel sorry for them over there."

Some also showed concern at the effect the proposed development could have on the area's wildlife and nature, given that the proposed site is full of greenery has several trees.

Jenny Allberry, 62, said: "Dorset Council has declared a climate emergency, but now they would cut down all these trees."

In response, Betterment Properties said that they understood the concerns of the residents, but asked them in turn to understand their interests as a business.

A spokesman clarified that the proposed development would not reduce the space of the existing footpath. They also said that it is difficult to comment on the ecological situation at present, and their report on the matter would be ready in the next three weeks. They further pointed out that the proposed extra parking bays could help reduce on street parking.

The residents' petition will be available to sign at a meeting in Easton Methodist Church on Saturday, October 19 from 10am to 12pm.

Comments on the proposal can be made to Dorset Council until November 3.