OPPOSITION to a massive and contentious housing development in Caterham is to be stepped up – with two residents set to be "plunged into darkness" leading the way.

Proposals for a 161-home complex on the Oaklands site, off Coulsdon Road, were put on hold last week by the planning committee of Tandridge District Council.

After committee members widely condemned the scheme, they decided to arrange a site meeting so councillors could see the area for themselves.

Their criticisms of the multi-million pound development included likely traffic problems, too much built-up housing, the felling of mature trees and the close proximity of existing homes.

And some of those cheek-by-jowl with the planned estate in Soper Drive are particularly vocal.

IT consultant Leighton Copp says he faces a permanent winter in his south-facing back garden.

The nearest two-storey house, at a height of 26ft, would be just 10ft from his rear fence.

And immediately behind the house is proposed a two to three-storey apartment block, 34ft in height.

He said: "My garden would be totally overshadowed and in permanent darkness.

"The overpowering buildings would also block the light to my kitchen and lounge."

Mr Copp, who has designed a computer-generated image on what he and his next-door neighbour could face, added: "The council chamber was full when the planning committee deferred a decision the other day.

"I will make sure it's full to bursting when this plan comes up again for decision."

He said he and his neighbours will lobby residents in nearby roads – including Bunce Drive, St Lawrence Way and Danvers Way – to muster opposition against the plan.

Kala Chotai, who lives next door to Mr Copp, said: "We not only face being overlooked and overshadowed by these nearby properties, but the noise from the car park right next door will also be a problem.

"I was pleased that councillors did not give it planning permission, and at least put a decision off, but the uncertainty over what we are expected to face still remains."

Meanwhile, Jo Whiting, who lives in nearby Bunce Drive, said the new development would ruin the green outlook from her home – instead she faces looking at a brick wall.

A council spokeswoman said no date had yet been set for the site visit.

Asked if a revised application will be submitted, Martin Redman, a director of developers at Langham Homes behind the plans, told the Mirror: "We are reviewing all our options at the moment."