PROPOSED developments for the Northern Olympic Fringe area could spell disaster for local green space, campaigners have warned.

The Northern Olympic Fringe covers a wide area including parts of Stratford, Leytonstone and Leyton and the proposals would see the face of the area change dramatically.

But the New Lammas Lands Defence Committee (NLLDC), which exists to protect ancient Lammas lands in Leyton, fears the proposals will see roads cutting across Leyton Marshes.

Joe Ward, chairman of the NLLDC, said: “We're a bit puzzled. We thought it would just be footpaths across the marshes.

“But the detailed proposals mentioned three local roads and we thought it was important that we get this clarified.”

Following discussions at the NLLDC's annual picnic, residents said they were “shocked” that the proposals could “threaten the essentially rural character of Marsh Lane Fields”.

According to the Northern Olympic Fringe Draft Masterplan, proposals could include new roads in the area around Marsh Lane Fields.

Mr Ward added: “It would destroy the tranquillity so close to the Olympic site.

“One of the proposed roads is directly behind Clementina Road and would become a major rat run.”

There was also concern that proposals would favour new roads and housing rather than footpaths and green space.

A consultation is currently being carried out on the proposals and the NLLDC is encouraging its members to take part.

Mr Ward said: “If there's an extension of green space, then it's a very positive thing but if there are new roads, then it presents a wholly different scenario.”

The NLLDC is now inviting local residents to a walk which will explore the proposals, starting from the entrance to Lammas School, Seymour Road, at 6.30pm on August 11.

All consultation documents for the Northern Olympic Fringe are publically available by clicking here.

Cllr Terry Wheeler, cabinet member for investment and enterprise, said: “These are exciting times for the area and this is a perfect opportunity for residents to say what they think this part of the borough should look like when the 2012 Games have been and gone.

“We realise that any decisions we make will have a massive impact on the local area and we know that residents and local interest groups will want to have their say on the borough’s future.

“As of yet, no plans are set in stone and the whole point of this consultation is to discuss our thoughts and ideas with residents and hear theirs."