ANGRY villagers plan to hold a referendum to stop a massive housing development going ahead in Sherburn-in-Elmet.

They have served a notice on Selby District Council and Sherburn Parish Council, calling for a referendum under the Local Government Act 1972.

Residents will be asked on the referendum form: "Do you want 1,100 houses to be built between Moor Lane and Low Street, in Sherburn-in-Elmet, in accordance with the deposit Selby District Local Plan?"

The battle plans will get under way this Friday at the Eversley Park Centre, when people will be asked to sign for a referendum.

Villagers are also knocking on doors to ask people to sign a petition, which will be sent to Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott.

The plans were recently approved by Selby Council's planning committee - but because they are on a greenfield site, they have been referred to Mr Prescott's office for approval.

Furious residents claim the development will "swamp" their village, increasing its population by 40 per cent.

Leading objector Joanne Elsworth, of Moor Lane, said: "I think Selby Council just doesn't want to hear the views of residents. Many people have sent numerous objections at every stage of the planning process, but these have been more or less dismissed.

"It is now time to stand up and be counted."

Joanne's mother, Myrtle Hall, 64, of Moor Lane, said: "The vast majority of residents are incensed by these plans."

Selby Council says the new housing by Persimmon Homes and Redrow on 110 acres of agricultural land will help meet a shortage of houses in the district.

Updated: 14:30 Wednesday, October 15, 2003