Plans to build on New Line Learning Academy’s school playing fields are putting an ancient woodland under threat.

That is the contention of Kent county councillor Brian Clark (Lib Dem, Maidstone South) and Maidstone borough councillor Derek Mortimer (Lib Dem, South ward), who are urging planners to refuse a scheme for 220 homes on the site in Boughton Lane, Loose.

The developer’s proposals include two access roads – one would cut through the heart of Five Acre Wood, sparking a 1,500-signature petition opposing the idea.

Cllr Clark said: “This plan involves a land swap between Ward Homes and KCC which is very unpopular locally as it will ruin the woodland and greatly increase traffic in Boughton Lane.” People who wish to comment on the proposal should contact Maidstone council by Thursday, quoting application number 13/2197.