People living in Wardle, near Nantwich, only found out about the planned 7,000-home town on Friday.

The scheme is one of dozens submitted to the government as it aims to create up to 10 eco-towns across the country.

Stephen O'Brien, Tory MP for Eddisbury, said there was "deep concern" within the local community at the plans.

Mr O'Brien, whose constituency home would be sited next to the proposed town, has written to the government asking ministers to explain the "secrecy" surrounding the scheme.

We are not about to start imposing these towns on local people Government spokesman

The MP described the plans as "ill-conceived" and said they would present major environmental issues to the rural community.

Opponents claim the town would bring an extra 17,000 people and 10,000 vehicles into the area, placing an unnecessary burden on local infrastructure.

As part of the nationwide eco-town scheme, the Department for Communities and Local Government has received in excess of 50 bids for consideration.

A department spokesman told BBC News that each bid, if shortlisted, would be subject to the normal "rigorous" planning process, including public consultation.

Villagers have made their feelings about the plans clear

"They must meet tough tests proving they make best use of brownfield land, safeguard local wildlife and habitat areas and provide low and zero carbon technologies and good public transport systems," he said.

"We are not about to start imposing these towns on local people."

Nevertheless, residents are planning a march to protest against the development proposals in Wardle on Saturday.

Residents' spokesman Philip Elsegood said: "I think a lot of other residents have only found out in the last day or two.

'Greenfield Cheshire'

"This is greenfield Cheshire. Apart from one small industrial estate this is not industrial at all.

"This is a bigger town than all of the local towns. It would be massive here in this area."

In a statement, developer Pochin said that it had satisfied the government criteria in its submission.

The company said it had chosen Wardle because of its excellent transport links and existing brownfield site.

It said the proposed development would also create "much-needed new facilities".