South Belfast residents have spoken out against plans for 18 homes which they believe could "ruin" the Lagan Meadows area.
Belfast City Council planning committee is to make a decision on a proposal for 18 homes on land off Hampton Park which would be the second phase of a "luxury" housing development.
The plans, which have been recommended for approval by council planners, have received more than 230 objections for local residents and political representatives who feel that they will have an adverse effect on the local area and damage a popular area of biodiversity in Belfast.
The site is located between Lagan Valley Regional Park and Belvoir Forest Park.
Concerns have also been raised that the development will cut off access to the Annadale area for those living in the Belvoir estate.
South Belfast Alliance MLA Paula Bradshaw has written to the council twice to highlight residents' objections to the scheme and says authorities need to start taking responsibility for promoting and protecting biodiversity and the environment.
Ms Bradshaw said: "Residents are keen to see this valuable green space protected, and whilst I understand the developer is open to seeing access to Lagan Lands East retained as a condition of the planning permission, the expansion of this development is not in the interests of the local wildlife.
"I have twice written to the Council to highlight my opposition to this application on behalf of my constituents. Authorities need to start taking responsibility for promoting biodiversity, protecting the environment and expanding our natural heritage."
Local resident Fiona McKinley was joined by dozens of others at a protest against the proposals on Monday afternoon where the council's planning committee were urged to rejection the plans.
She said: "The meadows is a vital area of natural biodiversity for Belfast and this development will have such a negative impact on not only this area but the two parks that are located beside it.
"At a time when we are already seeing an extinction crisis we cannot allow something like this to go ahead which will devastate an area of environmental beauty and heritage for our future generations. It could also lead to further developments being built right down to the river.
"This is an area that needs to be protected and allowed to thrive. It should not be seen as an ideal location to build luxury homes, which will destroy such an important and environmentally rich area."
Belfast City Council officers have recommended the development for approval saying: “It is considered that the proposal is acceptable having regard to the development plan, retained planning policies, consultation responses, representations and other material considerations.”
A decision is due to be made at the meeting of the Planning Committee on Tuesday, February 15.
