A petition containing more than 1,000 signatures was handed to Swale council in protest at plans for 500 new homes in Minster.

In a further boost to Islanders opposed to the scheme, it was announced a public consultation on the issue has been extended.

The petition was drawn-up over the proposed development at Barton Hill Drive which was outlined in the council’s Bearing Fruits draft Local Plan.

Minster resident Alan Bengall presented a document at the council’s HQ in East Street, Sittingbourne on Monday afternoon with the names of 1,012 residents who are against the proposal.

The 67-year-old from Barton Hill Drive, said: “I’m totally gobsmacked by the response to the petition.

“It shows the depth of feeling against the whole plan.

“I can’t see them stopping building houses on Sheppey, all we ask is they build on brown sites first.”

A minimum of 500 homes, including five pitches for gypsies and travellers, are proposed for a 61-acre green field site to the west of Barton Hill Drive.

Other sites at the outskirts of existing developments across
the Island have also been proposed.

The consultation process for members of the public to have a say on the issue was due to end on Monday.

But a glitch with the website for people to publish comments online means the deadline has been extended until Friday for written and email responses.

The council made the decision to allow the extra time after it was revealed users were only afforded a five-minute window to post comments via the online consultation page which was closed down on Monday.

Mr Bengall was among those calling for the public to be given more time to make their feelings known.

He said: “People don’t go online with a script already written and many will be writing from the heart.

“If they are up against the clock, the chances are their thoughts will be muddled and their opinions won’t come across clearly.

“Vague ramblings won’t be accepted as part of the process.”

The outcome of the consultation is expected to be announced to council members in December.

If the plans are not thrown out, Mr Bengall has spoken of organising a protest march between Thistle Hill and Cowstead Corner.

Responses can now be emailed directly to: Planningpolicy@swale.gov.uk or submitted to Swale House, East Street, Sittingbourne ME10 3HT.

All comments must be made by 5.30pm on Friday.