THE most controversial planning development in Lymm in recent memory takes another step forward next week, when villagers will get their first look at blueprints for a 200-home estate.

The go-ahead for building work on the Oughtrington Lane and Longbutt Lane site was finally given in December, following years of court battles and acrimonious complaints from residents and councillors.

Now Warrington-based developer Wilson Connolly Homes is holding the exhibition to allow parish councillors and members of the public to have a look at the plans and ask any questions that they may have.

Clr Sheila Woodyatt, chairman of Lymm Parish Council, said she was delighted that the local residents are going to be consulted about the plans.

She added: "Clearly this is the last nail in the coffin of losing green fields in Lymm, but we want a prestige development, we don't want something bog standard, we want something that is not going to destroy the character of our village."

Outline planning permission was awarded for the scheme - which will include a number of affordable homes on the plot of land - in December by law lords, but detailed plans need to be approved before building can take place.

The scheme met with fierce opposition at the time, with countless legal battles as villagers sought to save one of the last remaining green fields in Lymm.

The planning exhibition will take place next Thursday, September 4, in the council chamber at the village hall on Pepper Street, and will run from 6pm until 8pm.