House builders who want to put up to 180 new homes on a green belt site in Mangotsfield said they were confident they could overcome problems highlighted by those opposing the scheme.

The application by Taylor Wimpey will lead to the loss of what is now open space between Mangotsfield School, Cleve Rugby Club and Mangotsfield Football Club.

A campaign has already been started to oppose the outline application for the site off Cossham Street.

Members of Save Our Green Spaces (SOGS) said their main objection was over the loss of green belt land.

But they are also worried about potential flooding problems and the large amount of extra traffic the scheme would generate and its effect on the village.

But Taylor Wimpey said it had carried out public consultation.

A spokesman for the company said: "While the land is classified as green belt, the site is ideally located to provide new housing within the existing settlement of Mangotsfield.

"A full traffic assessment report has been submitted as part of the application and we are confident the mitigation measures proposed will address the transport impact associated with the development.

"A flood risk assessment has also been submitted as part of the application which demonstrates the proposals for the development do not increase the risk of flooding."

SOGS is worried other land nearby could be under threat of development if the current application wins approval.

It has started a leaflet campaign to let people know about the proposal and is lobbying councillors, MPs and those who will be standing in the next General Election.

Residents have also sent in objections, some saying they have worries about the safety of children walking to and from Mangotsfield School as a result of extra cars.

Downend Local History Group has also asked about the future of historical features on the land, including a pennant stone wall and stone stiles.