Part of an ancient woodland on the edge of Perthshire’s biggest village could be wiped out by a controversial housing plan, campaigners have claimed.
Proposals for up to 700 homes at Scone have raised fears for trees on the site boundary.
Locals say the historic woods could be destroyed to create an access road to the first phase of 100 homes.
Building firm A&J Stephen is facing widespread opposition for its new masterplan, which was unveiled to villagers last month.
The company wants to build hundreds of properties over acres of farmland between Spoutwells Drive and Angus Road.
Members of the council’s development management committee was this week given the chance to raise any issues which needed to be addressed in the planning process, although they were banned from commenting on the scheme directly.
Councillor Lewis Simpson, whose home overlooks the site, addressed the committee.
He said: “I have been approached by a large number of residents who have expressed their views about this proposed development.
“I have also attended two Scone and District Community Council meetings and a developer’s public event in December. To date, I have not received any comments in support.”
He added: “So far, there has been no mention of the proposed loss of an ancient woodland where the access road and possibly some housing will be sited.”
Mr Simpson, who is the village postmaster, said there was also concern about a huge increase in traffic as well as construction vehicles along Stormont Road, past the school.
The whole project will hinge on a decision on the long-awaited Cross Tay Link Road, which will connect the village with the A9, south of Luncarty.
Mr Simpson said the council needed to clear up a “lack of clarity” over the crossing as a matter of urgency.
“Congestion in both Scone and Bridgend already cause considerable problems for the wider community who are rightly concerned that further housing in advance of the link will lead to even longer queues and increased travel time,” he said.
Local minister Alan Livingstone said: “There is a lot of disquiet about this project. Nobody seems to want it and no one has come to me saying they are in support.”
The Conservative councillor added: “The amount of traffic is a major worry. We’re looking at hundreds maybe thousands more cars coming in and out of Scone.
“People are concerned it will change the local character.”
Councillors have called for developers to consider including retail, open areas and a recycling centre.
A&J Stephen has also being urged to return to the community with updated plans in the near future.
Company director John Stephen said: “We await the official response from the (development management) meeting and will be happy to comment at that time.”