Swindon's old stadium is owned by the town council

Residents have placed signs on the road near the site of the football club's planned stadium.

But the protestors claim Swindon Borough Council, which has backed the development, demanded the signs were taken down.

Newly planted trees for the Great Western Forest will have to be removed.

The council has refused to comment on the incident.

Local impact

One protestor told the BBC he was worried the development would change the area.

"It will have an impact on everything from traffic to football supporters in the local pubs and shops. It will impact everyone in the area."

Swindon's current town centre ground is owned by the town council.

The new out-of-town stadium would include a hotel and a gym.

If the club is successful in gaining planning permission the stadium could be in use by the 2007/2008 season.