A PLANNING application for 1,000 homes on the edge of Hereford is not now expected to be submitted until the New Year.

Master planners John Thompson & Partners (JTP) had initially earmarked September as the date it wanted to submit plans for the 'urban extension' at Three Elms, which is also set to include employment land and a new primary school.

But the London-based firm says it is still in talks with Herefordshire Council and has now pushed the expected submission date back.

"The latest position is that we are in discussion with the council and are intending to submit the application early in the New Year," said Charles Campion, a partner at JTP.

Ever since the development idea went public earlier this year, the plans have proved controversial to some of those living near the planned site, which is owned by the Church Commissioners.

In July, one group of residents protested ahead of an event held at Whitecross High School at what they believed was a lack of communication from JPT.

A petition objecting to the idea has attracted more than 400 signatures.

JTP has said community planning workshops held in May were publicised "through a range of media and community networks", adding they were "pleased with participation".

The proposed site lies to the west of Three Elms Road on land stretching from the border of Whitecross School up to the Roman Road next to the Beech Business Park and out to the new livestock market.

It then runs south to Kings Acre Road stretching either side of Huntington Lane.

Should permission be granted, work is expected to start in 2017.