Plans by an Oxford University college to double the population of Binsey village has alarmed residents.
Christ Church has submitted a planning application to Oxford City Council to demolish a barn at Manor Farm and build three two-bedroom and four three-bedroom homes in its place. A roadside barn, which is a listed building, could also be converted into a home.
Members of the Binsey Village Residents' Association said the scheme should not go ahead because the village was a conservation area. Villagers also claim that the new development would be in the flood plain.
Alison Cobb, 67, said there were only ten homes in Binsey and almost doubling the number would completely change the village's character. She said: "The vast majority of villagers object to these new homes being jammed on to this tiny site."
Mrs Cobb said the issue was particularly sensitive because Christ Church owned the 411-acre village and many of its properties: "But this isn't just about the residents. I believe a lot of people in Oxford will be anxious to preserve the village in its current state."
Chartered surveyors Smith-Woolley are acting on Christ Church's behalf to prepare the planning application for the village, best known for its pub, The Perch. Spokesman Paul Lindon said: "Residents have been fully consulted. They agree that the principle of redeveloping the farmyard is the best way forward."
City councillors will consider the plans on September 26.