Heritage Homes has been told to stop work immediately on land where it hopes to build 21 homes and an elderly mentally infirm unit.

The forestry division’s issued a notice to the developer, which has spent the past fortnight carrying out clearing work on the site.

And it has also been agreed for a wildlife consultant to examine the land next week to assess if any damage has been caused.

Although planners turned down the company’s application on environmental grounds earlier this month, a 200-strong residents group feel no work should be carried as the land is home to a number of protected habitats.

South Douglas MHK, David Cretney (pictured) who has supported the objectors since the outset, believes it’s a breakthrough: