Like many of his neighbours, Ryan Singh chose his new home largely because of the tranquillity of its location beside a picturesque golf course.

But he and others on the Royal Parade estate in Canterbury have been left horrified to discover the route of a planned eastern bypass around the city could pass just yards from their properties.

They fear the new road will shatter their peace and quiet, cause pollution and devalue their properties.

The proposed bypass, which would run from Sturry to the A2 at Bridge, could cut through the Old Park and Chequer’s Wood.

The city council believes the new road will significantly cut traffic congestion in the centre of Canterbury.

But dad-of-two Mr Singh, who works as a telecommunications engineer, says he and his neighbours in Realmwood Close will be on the front-line of the busy road.

“With all the noise, pollution and lighting at all hours, it would devastate the quality of life of everyone here, “ he said.

“I don’t know how they could even consider building a bypass in such close proximity to our houses.”

Mr Singh and his wife Nora moved to Canterbury with their children from north Kent, choosing their location because it was peaceful and away from main roads.

“This would be our last move up the property ladder and we intended to stay here for the foreseeable, “ he said.

“I have even gone to the extent of having planning permission granted just recently to extend my property to cater for working from home.

“But when I heard about the recent proposal for the eastern bypass running a stone’s throw from my house I was totally outraged, as are other residents in my development.

“An estate agent has already told me the prospect of the road will significantly devalue our homes.

“But if it looks like it will happen, I am prepared to take the financial hit and sell up because I couldn’t put up with it.

“As it is, I have put a planned extension to my property on hold because of this threat hanging over us.”

Mr Singh’s fears are shared by neighbour Mathew Jose, who works at a nurse at the Kent and Canterbury Hospital.

A dad to three young girls, he says he too bought his home because of its tranquil and private location.

"There’s been no consultation so now it’s just hanging over us and blighting our properties...”

“It’s a lovely spot and great for the children,” he said, “but that would all change if we have traffic whizzing past our windows at all hours, with all the noise and pollution.

“Obviously, we’re very worried about it. There’s been no consultation so now it’s just hanging over us and blighting our properties.”

Mr Singh believes there is an alternative route for the bypass that could be created by widening Stodmarsh Road.

He added: “Aside from the impact on our homes, the loss of this valuable green space, which many local families enjoy, would be a tragedy.”