PLANS for 1,000 homes on the edge of Hereford won't be submitted until later this year.

The urban extension is earmarked for Three Elms and is also set to include a new primary school and employment land.

Master planners John Thompson & Partners (JTP) had initially planned to send an application to Herefordshire Council of behalf of landowners the Church Commissioners this month but that date has now been put back.

The London-based firm said: "The team continues to develop and test the proposals for Three Elms following last year’s community engagement events, alongside ongoing dialogue with Herefordshire Council.

"It is our intention to submit an outline planning application later in the year, and prior to submission we will hold a further public event to update residents on the application proposals."

The initial plans were first made public last year and have proved controversial to some of those living near the planned site.

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

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

JTP has previously said community planning workshops held in May were publicised through a range of channels.

The proposed site lies on land stretching from the border of Whitecross School up to the Roman Road.

Should permission be granted, work is likely to start next year.