UNDISTURBED countryside in Suffolk is being swallowed by urban growth at such an alarming rate it could largely disappear by the end of the century, a new report warns.

UNDISTURBED countryside in Suffolk is being swallowed by urban growth at such an alarming rate it could largely disappear by the end of the century, a new report warns.

Maps released today by the Campaign to Protect Rural England show how vast areas of rural land are now affected by noise and light intrusion.

The rate of encroachment has also alarmed campaigners, who argue unspoilt countryside is vital for people's quality of life and well-being.

Nearly 38pc of Suffolk - or 562 out of 1,487 square miles - is now disturbed by noise, light and spoiled views, compared to 16pc in the early 1960s and 29pc in the 1990s.

Shaun Spiers, CPRE chief executive: “These maps show what the future may hold if we don't sufficiently value our wonderful rural landscapes. As the shadow of intrusion stretches further and wider, the peace and quiet we need is harder to find.”