Ancient woodland in Lordswood could be protected from the effects of plans for a huge new housing estate by classifying it as a village green.

Even though Hook Wood and Hall Wood already border an extensive urban development in Lordswood, Medway Council is proposing to give both a status more usually associated with sleepy hamlets set in rolling countryside.

With a scheme to build 450 homes on adjoining land at Gibraltar Farm, currently the subject of a planning appeal, the authority wants to do all it can to avoid the woods being endangered.

It is pushing to declare the council-owned land as a village green which offers extra protection under a 19th century Act of Parliament.

To do so it needs the permission of the Secretary of State for the Environment and would be open to legal opposition. But councillors are determined to press ahead after considering numerous pleas from local residents worried about the possible loss of a valuable amenity that is enjoyed by many.

The land, which includes a recreation area, is used by families living nearby and dog walkers.

Capstone and Lordswood ward councillor David Wildey mooted the idea as a matter or urgency given the Capstone Valley is much sought-after by developers.

Cllr Wildey said there was currently no proposed building use for the woodland and it therefore needed: “ an extra level of protection”.

The status would give residents the rights to use the land for sports and recreational purposes and forbids the erection of structures, unless they are “with a view to better enjoyment”.

Cllr Adrian Gulvin said: “It would be a shame to lose this facility.

“I believe that by proceeding with the village green and doing it with consultation of residents, is a correct and viable way of protecting it.”

The council has already rejected controversial plans for the housing estate at Gibraltar Farm, but its decision is being challenged by the developers and could be overturned by the government.

The cabinet voted unanimously in favour of the village green idea and has recommended that the full council should back it.