PLANS to build a new bridge in Finchingfield do not need an environmental impact assessment, according to planning officers.

Essex County Council is planning on building a new bridge and footpath in the village to replace its iconic bridge, which once formed part of the Tour de France route.

Residents believe the new bridge would change the “vista” of their village, which relies heavily on tourists for trade.

An environmental impact assessment would evaluate the likely environmental impacts of the proposed project, as well as social and economic factors.

But Essex County Council decided the project was not major enough to warrant one.

A decision letter from Essex County Council said: “The area of the works proposed does not exceed one hectare.”

Barry Gilbey of Finchingfield Preservation Society said: “I find it strange that Essex County Council don’t require an impact assessment in somewhere that has flooded over the years.

“It’s very strange that they are not, but if they are following the planning process then who can say otherwise.

“It also means they are not worried and have no consideration for the traffic and traffic speed, both of which will increase with a new bridge.

“The concern is that the new bridge will change the vista of the village and given that probably 70 per cent of businesses here rely on tourists, it’s not good.”

Planning permission will be required for the bridge. An initial proposed start date in September is likely to be pushed back to January.

See the plans at essexhighways.org.