WICKLOW County Council has been accused of trying to eliminate the last piece of green belt between Delgany and Greystones and of creating an "urban sprawl".
The Delgany Area Residents' Association said the council had given planning permission to Avmark Ltd for nearly 300 houses beside the old village of Delgany, Co Wicklow, despite strong protests from 500 residents and local representatives.
The association, which is appealing the decision to An Bord Pleanala, is holding a public protest meeting in Delgany on Friday night.
It is concerned that if the development goes ahead the local infrastructure will not be able to handle what could be up to 1,000 extra cars.
"Heavy lorries and buses are using these small country roads and they cannot pass in some places without mounting the pavements," the association said in a statement.
"All the old historical homes and buildings, not to mention the residents, are in danger."