A group of residents who live near a nature reserve on the edge of Chard are opposing plans for a 78 new homes which they fear could jeopardise the tranquillity of the area.
An application for outline planning permission to build at Oaklands Avenue has been submitted to South Somerset District Council by Philip Storey.
The plans also propose building a new access road to the area, which is near Chard Reservoir and Nature Reserve.
Brian Joyner of nearby Bracken Way has voiced his concerns after the developer exhibited plans at the Chard Guildhall. The plans were shown as part of the Chard Regeneration Scheme, which also includes proposals for news industrial areas and shops across the town.
He said: "Quite a few of us plan to go to the district council meeting when this is discussed to voice our concerns in person. I am speaking to people in the area and putting leaflets through doors, trying to spread the word to as many people as possible.
"I am also keen to get the likes of Bill Oddie, Spring Watch and the RSPB involved, there are some rare birds around the reservoir which could be threatened by the development.
"There may well also be slow worms, dormice and badgers around."
Mr Joyner was critical of the wider Chard Regeneration Scheme.
He said: "Do we really want to ruin this area for industry that probably won't come here in the end? There are shops in town right now that are empty and to put in more seems silly.
"I think the housing could be built without the need for a road."
Scores of other nearby residents have also registered their objections to the proposals with the council.
Chard Town Council has recommended refusal for the application because of the density of development and insufficient provision for recreation facilities.
A decision on the plan is due to be made in February.
