Villagers in Aldenham are "dead against" a housing development on the former equestrian centre site.

Patchetts Equestrian Centre in Hilfield Lane officially closed last month and has now been bought by Bushey-based developers Heronslea.

Heronslea, who held a public consultation two weeks ago, are proposing to build 63 houses on the site, along with car parking space and appropriate infrastructure.

One resident, who asked not to be named said: "We are dead against the plans. Not only is this on conservation land, the equestrian centre is on green belt land - however, they are arguing that it is brown belt land, because it has listed buildings on the site.

"There is also a lot of wildlife in the area like muntjac deers - what will happen to them?"

The proposals, which are yet to be submitted to Hertsmere Borough Council, also include building another separate entrance to the houses.

Chair of the Aldenham Conservation Society, Paul Kemble said: "Patchetts Green is a lovely village with under 100 houses and the number of houses Heronslea are proposing would just be too much.

"We are particularly concerned about the increase in traffic and congestion - it's bad enough as it is and with this development, they'll be at least another 120 cars.

"They are also proposing to build another entrance near Hilfield Lane, which we're not sure how it will work. The road is very narrow as it is with room for only one vehicle to pass through - it will be a nightmare for delivery vans and construction vehicles."

Residents have also raised concerns about possible noise pollution. They said because the proposed housing is next to the M1 motorway, once the equestrian centre has been demolished there will be no buffer.

In response to this residents said Heronslea told them they are looking into putting in some sort of sound proofing.

Mr Kemble added that to raise awareness of the development, on Monday, August 31 they will be holding an event on the green.

The idea, he said, is if people are opposed to the proposals to get them to right in a letter of objection to the council.

Heronslea decline to comment.