An application to build 71 new homes off a busy road has been met with fierce opposition.

Residents have raised concerns about Tesni Property Ltd’s plans to construct a new estate on farmland off Mount Hill, Halstead.

Representing the residents of Greenbanks during a town council meeting, David Pleasance noted the greenfield site was not part of the local plan. He also raised concerns about the increased traffic it would bring.

He said: “Collectively we are objecting to the application.

“The site has never been and is not part of the local plan.

“It is one of the few sites left in Halstead which has been left untouched for many years and is home to a lot of birds and animals.

“The traffic running along Mount Hill is quite dangerous and when you get the added traffic from Oak Road it is going to make it a nightmare.”

Halstead Town Council has also objected to the plans due to concerns about the site proximity to the A131.

Councillors were also damning about the financial contribution Tesni Properties would be required to make towards healthcare in the town.

Speaking of the £26,818 contribution, councillor Jackie Pell said: “I don’t think that is enough.

“We know that it not adequate because it says in the report the health service here is not adequate so that won’t pay for anything.”

It was noted a national calculation had been applied to work out the possible contribution.