Plans for more than 200 extra homes in Mid Sussex have been backed by a Government inspector despite widespread opposition.

A report published today, the result of a seven-month investigation into the Mid Sussex Local Plan, says more homes are desperately needed but the call has prompted an angry response from some quarters.

The inspector considered almost 2,000 objections to planning schemes proposed by both Mid Sussex District Council and private developers.

But he endorsed plans to build 120 houses on land at Mackie Avenue, Hassocks, as well as 16 more at Weald Cottage, Haywards Heath, 50 at Orchard Way, Hurstpierpoint, and 90 at Folders Farm, Burgess Hill.

Tony Barton, of Hassocks Parish Council, who lives in Mackie Avenue, said: "It has come as a bit of a bombshell. I'm very disappointed.

"It's going against the Mid Sussex local plan. If they build another 120 homes here, where will it end? We'll end up joining up with Burgess Hill."

Andrew Barrett-Miles, of Burgess Hill Town Council and Mid Sussex District Council, is angry about the inspector's decision.

He said: "There were four pages of objections to this development. In general terms, there will be a lot of people in Mid Sussex disappointed with the extra sites they have added."

However, Cabinet Member for Environment, Andrew MacNaughton, said the changes could have stretched even wider.

He said: "This is a very good outcome for Mid Sussex.

"The local plan has stood up very well to a heavy and sustained challenge by developers seeking additional land releases across the district and the inspector has proposed just three additional areas for housing.

"He has made it clear further releases of greenfield land will not be necessary up to 2006 if the council follows his advice to implement the local plan strategy as quickly as possible and allocate the three additional areas for housing that he recommends."

Councillors will debate the inspector's recommendations in the autumn and the final report will be published around January.

For more information on the report, log on to www.midsussex.gov.uk