Residents in the Carrowshee Park area of Lisnaskea are objecting to plans to build a number of new houses in the area.

Celine Maguire, who lives in Carrowshee Park, explains residents recently received a letter from Oaklee Housing Association saying they have plans to build 24 new family homes in a field at the back of the estate. Mrs Maguire described the site as 'not particularly large', and that the plans are for 24 detached two storey homes.

Outlining the main concern of residents in the area, Mrs Maguire said these plans will bring the number of houses in the area to 190 and will have a huge knock-on effect on traffic in the area: "Ten to fifteen years ago", she stated, " there was an awful lot less traffic in the area.

"Now most houses have two if not three cars, and this is causing problems. What will it be like if there are another 24 homes build here?"

Mrs Maguire explained all the cars have to come into Carrowshee Park through one entrance and she can't understand why they did not look for another site with a separate entrance.

"Yes, I understand there is a need for more social housing in Lisnaskea, but I would urge Oaklee to look for an alternate site."

She also explained the additional development would put at risk the extensive wildlife which is present in the area.

It is hoped a meeting can be arranged between Oaklee and concerned residents in the near future to discuss the development which is due to start on site in April 2009.

Anyone who would like more details or to add their support to the campaign can contact Mrs Maguire on 6772 2773 or email pandcmaguire@yahoo.co.uk.

A spokesperson for Oaklee Housing Association explained: "Oaklee can confirm that a proposed development at Carrowshee Park in Lisnaskea will consist of 24 family homes to meet the housing needs of the local community, and is supported by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.

"As part of the Social Housing Development Programme, the development has been phased in for 2009/2010 and a consultative process has already begun with local residents and Councillors. To date ,one objection has been received," she reported.

She went on: "We give full consideration to new developments in terms of balancing housing need with the impact they may have on the environment and, indeed the local communities. The Association will be consulting with the Roads Service as part of the regular planning procedures."