RESIDENTS are fighting controversial plans for almost 100 new homes in their village.
An outline planning application for up to 97 homes in Tolleshunt Knights has been submitted to Maldon District Council.
Kler Group hopes to build homes on land east and west of Top Road.
The applicant wants to implement a “landscape-led approach”, with open space, a children’s play area, and amenity space.
Access would be made through two proposed priority controlled T-junctions.
Ten per cent of the homes would be bungalows to “support the ageing population”.
However, some villagers are unhappy with the plans and the council has received eight objections online.
Many are concerned with how the new buildings would affect the character of the site.
One resident said: “These housing developments are unnecessary, disproportionate and will mean we lose the rural character of Top Road.”
Other issues raised include the impact of development on road safety, traffic and infrastructure.
Another objector said: “Top Road is a country lane without footpaths and is already dangerous for pedestrians, children riding their bikes to school, and horse riders.
“The local bus service is entirely inadequate for commuters and going to work or shop – people will be forced to use private transport.
“This will exacerbate the traffic problems through Tiptree where they have already restricted any new developments to the north of their village as the single route through Tiptree is unable to take additional traffic.”
They continued: “There are no shops or schools and residents are dependent on Tiptree Medical Centre and dentist services which are already overwhelmed and without any option to expand.”
About 200 villagers gathered on Tuesday to protest against the plans at a public meeting in the village hall.
One said the new homes would increase the number of properties in Tolleshunt Knights by 22 per cent.
Another added the impact the new homes could have on pollution as they said it would lead to "around 250 cars and a number of delivery vans".
The parish council will be meeting next Monday to put through their objections, and asked residents to send their individual objections and submissions before October 7.
Maldon District Council will have the final say on the application.
Read more:
>>> Bid to build up to 97 homes in Tolleshunt Knights revealed
>>> More than 500 campaigners vow to fight homes threat to meadow
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here