Controversial plans for 250 homes on a village recreation ground look set to get the nod.

Earlier this year, Trenport Investments Ltd put forward plans for homes on both sides of Church Street in the village of Cliffe, near Rochester.

The plans would involve building on the APCM recreation ground, which campaigners have sought to block.

The Cliffe and Cliffe Woods Resident’s Development Group, who have been campaigning against the proposals, successfully petitioned Medway Council to have the land – which is used by football and cricket teams – listed as an Asset of Community Value (ACV).

Under Trenport’s plans, the rec would be relocated to a new site off Buttway Lane so new homes can be built in their place, as well as on the field across the road.

The ACV status doesn’t rule out development, however, if the land ever comes up for sale, the residents’ group would be given a fair chance to bid for it.

Trenport wants to retain Cliffe Bowls Club – which neighbours the APCM – and provide improved club parking.

The proposals also include a new community hub and a children’s play area. A quarter of the homes are also planned to be affordable.

The application site is equivalent to 43 football fields, although the amount which could be developed into housing roughly the size of 12 pitches.

The council says it has received 123 letters of objection. Residents have raised concerns about the impact the development would have on the B2000 – the main road through the village – the loss of the existing sports field, and views across open fields, as well as the increased demand on services.

Objections were also received from the parish councils in Cliffe and Cliffe Wood, and Higham.

Planning officers have recommended approval for the plans subject to Trenport paying just less than £2.4 million in contributions to services and amenities.

If approved, the money will go towards school expansions, open space improvements, the maintenance of GP surgeries and libraries, as well as supporting wildlife.

The planning committee will consider the plans at a meeting next Wednesday.