A SURVEY of public opinion is being considered in Marcham, near Abingdon, after plans to build 45 houses on Anson Field received widespread opposition.

Money from the properties, planned by the Anson Trust, would pay for a community centre and playing fields on farmland near Hyde Copse.

An extraordinary meeting of Marcham Parish Council was attended by more than 100 people.

Councillors deferred a decision to consult village organisations and consider setting up a survey.

Resident Frank Buckingham said Marcham had been "stitched up" and called for the old Institute building in North Street - closed by the trust three years ago - to be reopened instead of building a new centre.

Jeremy Collins said the Anson sisters, who started the trust, would be appalled at the state of affairs if they were alive. Other speakers did not want to lose the playing fields to more housing and there was concern that property values could plummet if the new homes were built.

The trust - which is close to bankruptcy and says doing nothing is not an option - received support from some residents. Pensioner Donald Creasy said: "There is a lot of prejudice. The trust has had to sell its houses to pay for facilities but now there is nothing left.

"Don't forget the young people. We can do a lot better for them with improved facilities."

Anson Trust director James Allan said it was only in the early stages of the consultation process.

He said: "We're volunteers and don't get paid a penny. There's no hidden agenda. We are trying to do our best for the people of Marcham."