Plans by Pennells to almost double the size of its Four Seasons Garden centre near Sleaford, Lincs, have drawn a wave of objections from local villagers.

North Kesteven District Council is being asked to approve the change of use of a field acquired by Pennells adjacent to the centre at Silk Willoughby to accommodate the proposed expansion.

In a design statement, Evolution Design, acting on behalf of Pennells, says: “The initial aim for this change of use application is to secure the generic wide-ranging garden centre use on the proposed extended area so, in due course, expansion of the Four Seasons Garden Centre can occur, including the whole range of varied retail and concession options that occur at these type of premises.”

The council has received more than 40 written objections to the plans, while 50 people attended a parish council meeting last week to voice their concerns.

The chairman of Silk Willoughby Parish Council, Alan Wilson, said the development would be the "start of the death knell" for the village, which has 320 residents. "The villagers don't want it - the depth of feeling is unbelievable. People live here because they want the village life.”

The council’s online planning portal says the 42 objections received include complaints raised about the shrinking of the green belt and the narrowing of the distance between Silk Willougby and Sleaford.