A plan to build up to 300 homes off a country lane in Rainham is likely to be scrapped amid a barrage of protest.

Developers want to build the housing estate on a 26-acre plot of productive farmland in Otterham Quay Lane.

But planning officers are concerned that the scheme would result in a loss of high quality agricultural land and mar the landscape. Environmental groups also fear that it could wipe out wildlife, particularly reducing the number of birds.

The outline application has been submitted by Persimmon Homes South East which wants to build two, three and four bedroom homes, 25% of which would be affordable housing.

Among objections outlined by ward councillor Howard Doe are the adverse impact it would have on surrounding roads, which he described as already gridlocked at certain times of the day.

Cllr Doe added that schools in the area were already at capacity and medical facilities were struggling to meet the needs of the existing community.

KCC’s heritage conservation group commented that the site was of archeological interest with Iron Age and Anglo-Saxon finds discovered.

Medway Council has received 186 letters and emails listing a total of 31 complaints including increased traffic congestion and the removal of an orchard.

One of those to complain was Trevor Harris, who said: “Persimmon are taking an opportunity to develop a piece of land that’s come up for sale without any consideration for the local residents or the new ones.”

Council officers felt that, while the development would contribute towards meeting market and affordable housing needs in Medway, the adverse impacts of granting planning permission “would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits”.

They have recommended refusal on the grounds of loss of productive, high grade, versatile agricultural land and because the change from farmland to a residential estate would have “a material and adverse urbanising effect in the area”.

The application will be considered during Wednesday’s planning committee meeting.