The sites - totalling 565 hectares of land - include 240 hectares at Stanton Ironworks, 60 hectares west of Ilkeston, and 190 hectares to the north of Stapleford; 55 between Toton and Stapleford and 20 at Toton Sidings.

The government has ordered local councils to identify areas where new housing could be built over the next 25 years to provide for around 60,000 new homes.

The study identified 12 areas where between 20,000 to 40,000 homes could be built in Hucknall, Arnold, Edwalton, Clifton Pastures, Toton, Stapleford and Erewash.

The report says no final decisions have been made on the developments which could include schools and surgeries.

Ken Rigby, of Broxtowe Borough Council, said: "I am pleased that the report represents an independent view of potential areas for development that has not been influenced by outside sources.

"This information, together with work being undertaken to identify available land in urban areas, will enable councils to begin preparation of their local housing plans and consult with their residents.

"Local councils will be working together to ensure that the need for new housing is addressed across the conurbation."

But Nick Palmer, MP for Broxtowe, said he was very concerned about the area highlighted that stretches from just north of Stapleford to Bilborough College.

He said: "They'll build along Coventry Lane and in the fields and that will be controversial, partly because it uses the fields and partly because it means a lot of new traffic in an area that's already quite congested."

A public consultation process will take place although no dates have yet been given.