PERMISSION has been given to create a new reed bed and safeguard bitterns whose existing habitats are threatened by rising sea levels.

PERMISSION has been given to create a new reed bed and safeguard bitterns whose existing habitats are threatened by rising sea levels.

The reed bed will be made by flooding land, bought by the RSPB for �390,000, near Snape Maltings. It is expected the reed bed will take 10 years to become established.

Approval was given by Suffolk Coastal's development control sub committee yesterdayalthough the potential impact on houses in Cundle Green Lane has greatly concerned residents.

Rob Macklin, Suffolk area manager of the RSPB, said there would be no problems for householders' septic tanks through flooding nearby land and that while two fields in the north may get wetter over the years the RSPB would put in a pump to hold the water table at a certain level.

But one objector, Mike Francis, speaking on behalf of six families in Cundle Green Lane, feared their septic tanks would not comply with building regulations and it would be impossible to gain consent for replacements meaning residents would need a private drainage system.

Cyril Fidler, Snape's district councillor, claimed the RSPB had failed to acknowledge the existence of Cundle Green Lane and the implications the scheme could have on the area.

He said: “I am sympathetic to the venture but I am most anxious to protect the habitat of Cundle Green Lane life.''