OPPOSITION continues to grow over a proposed development next to the former home of CS Lewis and a nature reserve said to have inspired Narnia.

The Wychwood Foundation submitted plans for nine apartments for vulnerable adults in a 2.5-storey block, including 22 car parking spaces, at Wychwood Lane, Risinghurst, last month.

A petition opposing the development gained almost 4,000 signatures in just one week and several current and former residents have voiced their anger.

One opponent, former Risinghurst resident Georgina Tennant, told the Oxford Mail: “The nature reserve is a rare gem of local beauty in the midst of a busy city.

“It holds a very special place in my heart as we used to visit it with my young son, when I was pregnant with my daughter, seven years ago.

“When our daughter was still born, scattering her ashes at Lewis Pond was an obvious choice as we could go back and visit it any time, remember her and make new memories.”

Amy Glen, who lives in Wantage and used to live in Risinghurst, said: “It is a rare piece of unspoilt, natural beauty and it needs to be protected at all costs.”

The Foundation was contacted for a comment but did not respond.