PLANS for 1,200 homes near Edwalton should be put off until other sites are suggested, a public inquiry has heard.

The houses at Sharphill would help meet the Government's target of 11,500 new homes for Rushcliffe by 2026.

But Andrew Hogan, representing Rushcliffe Borough Council, said other sites such as Clifton Southside and the Gamston Gateway could provide more housing.

He said the Clifton site had space for about 7,500 homes and Gamston a further 8,000.

"With Gamston Gateway and Clifton coming forward we clearly wouldn't need Edwalton," he said.

But planning consultant Mike Downes said Rushcliffe had a long waiting list of people needing affordable housing.

Under the Sharphill plans, 30% would be affordable homes and 90% of these would be social housing.

"Backlog must be addressed this year," he said. The houses needed to be built now due to the current lack of provision, he added.

The inquiry is into an appeal by David Wilson Homes and Brian Wells against Rushcliffe Borough Council's refusal of plans last year. It is expected to finish today.

The scheme would include relocating South Nottingham College.