THE idea that an extra 647 homes, filled with as many as 2,500 people, could stretch an area’s public services, is a safe assumption to make.

With multiple developments lined up for land around Box Road in Cam, it is understandable that residents and councillors, along with health, transport and education professionals, are concerned.

Last month we reported that Vale Hospital in Dursley is facing staff shortages and has been forced to reduce its hours to 8am-8pm, and with the addition of so many extra people this vital service may well collapse.

While it is clear that the area needs more housing - especially affordable homes for young people and their families - the infrastructure around them must be increased to handle the strain.

These changes should be made either before building starts or prior to new residents moving into the homes.

Improvements to schools, hospital and transport systems should be made urgently.

Otherwise people in Cam and Dursley could be left struggling to get to work or lacking medical attention.