Santon could be transformed by an estate of 149 homes if a proposal in the area plan for the east is approved.

A resident has opposed it becaue he said it would fundamentally alter the village.

As the Examiner reported in a front page story three weeks ago, the area plan, which is under public consultation, identified more than 5,000 more homes were required in the east from 2011 to 2016; some have already been built and suitable sites for others are being identified.

The plan includes the east of the island from Santon to Laxey and Lonan, and also encompasses Douglas, Onchan, Marown and Braddan.

The estate in Santon would be on farm land at the bottom of Ballanoa Meadow and to the side of Moaney Road up towards the shooting range.

Resident David Lawrence, who lives at Ballanoa Meadow, objects to the proposal and has appealed to others to join him.

To raise awareness, he outlined his concerns in a leaflet which he is distributing in the area.

He warned: ’This work would take a long time and cause major disruption to the area, not to mention the noise, dirt and extra traffic on a quiet country road.

’It will have a detrimental effect on the infrastructure of Santon, ie. utilities, it may even affect our rates.

’Please take some time to think about how this plan can change our surroundings and possible property values.’

He added it would also exacerbate traffic problems as trying to access the main road was already a ’nightmare’ in busy periods.

’Some of us chose to live in this area because we did not want to be in the middle of a large estate, and like the peace and quiet of living here. I hope you feel the same.’

He urged residents who share his concerns to contact the planning policy team at the Sea Terminal, where plans can be viewed, and Santon Commissioners.

The deadline for comments is April 21.