Plans for new homes in Daws Heath rejected
The developer has launched an appeal to the government
Plans for 160 new homes in an Essex village “would cause serious and lasting harm”, a meeting has been told. Developer Hillside Enterprises is behind the proposals for Solby Farm, Daws Heath Road, Daws Heath. It’s the latest attempt to develop the site after various proposals and applications in the past.
Castle Point Borough Council’s development management Committee debated the plans at a meeting on Tuesday (July 14). It comes as the developer has launch an appeal against the council, claiming the council has taken too long to decide on the plans, which means the Government’s planning inspectorate will have the final say.
One worried resident told the committee: “It would adversely impact local infrastructure, highways safety and directly impact neighbouring residents’ privacy. We are not opposed to new homes, nor do we oppose development in the right location. But this proposal asks you to exchange something that is irreplaceable, protected green belt, for something that could be delivered in a more appropriate setting elsewhere.”
He also told the committee that “any limited housing benefit is heavily outweighed by the many harms this proposal would cause”. Councillor Tim Copsey said the area is a “landscape that matters deeply to the people who live there.”
The People’s Independent Party councillor added: “It performs a strong green belt purpose, preventing the sprawl that would erode the very character of this area. The harm identified is substantial. Building 160 homes here would fundamentally change the openness of this landscape, visually, spatially and permanently.”
The plans state the development “responds positively to the challenges at a national and local level to deliver new market and affordable homes to meet ongoing housing needs.” The plans also state: “The development of the site is anticipated to generate a range of significant benefits that will positively impact not only future residents, but also the wider existing community. These benefits extend beyond the provision of new homes, contributing to the social, environmental, and economic well-being of the area as a whole.”
The proposals also include 50 per cent affordable housing, “specifically intended to support local individuals and families on low incomes, first-time buyers, and key workers.”
Councillors unanimously voted against the plans at the meeting.