An inquiry into plans to build homes on a prime riverside site in a Suffolk town has scheduled new dates to meet the demand of local people wanting to give their views.

Michael Howard Homes wants to build 15 luxury homes on the site of a former boat yard at Woodbridge on the River Deben.

Suffolk Coastal District Council had rejected earlier proposals due to concerns the development would spoil the historic area.

But the company appealed the decision and the planning inquiry, which took place on Monday and Tuesday this week, will continue on 3 and 4 December.

Corrugated buildings are on the site

The developers argue the only things on the site are redundant corrugated tin buildings.

Campaigners against the project said they are worried it is too close to the historic Tide Mill, which is a listed building.

Inquiry extended

So far the inquiry, under planning inspector Ava Wood, has heard the council's case and part of the developer's case, which is likely to conclude on 3 December.

Mrs Wood will then hear the views of local people.

A spokesman for Suffolk Coastal District Council said the inquiry, which was scheduled for three days, has been extended because of the number of people who wanted to give their view on the development.

He said Mrs Wood would be visiting the site on 2 December.

The December hearings will start at 1000 GMT.

A final decision by planning inspector is expected early in the new year.