PLANS for nearly 100 homes in a village have been recommended for refusal after 346 complaints from residents.

Gladman Developments applied to Braintree Council for planning permission to build up to 95 homes off of Finchingfield Road, in Steeple Bumpstead.

The plans would also include an informal public open space and children’s play area.

A pressure group, called Hands Off Steeple Bumpstead, was formed by residents.

A statement on the group’s website said: “We have been working very hard lobbying as many of the planning committee members as possible and we hope they have seen as well as heard our major objections to the planning application.”

Braintree Council officers say the bid should be blocked.

A report in the planning committee agenda said: “In the case of Steeple Bumpstead the facilities and amenities are such that residents are unable to meet their everyday requirements within the village.

“Furthermore, public transport facilities are limited and development in this location would undoubtedly place reliance upon travel by car.

“In addition, the proposal would have a significantly adverse impact upon the landscape and historic character of the area.

“The proposal would introduce a sizeable new development to an area of open countryside.”

Residents had sent letters of objection to the council saying the devel- opment was too large and would turn the village into a town.

They also thought there was not enough transport, infrastructure or facilities to cope.

Gladman Developments was con- tacted but there was no response.