A developer has relaunched its bid to build 26 new homes on a brownfield site.

Arboretum Partners is seeking to overturn Braintree Council’s decision to refuse planning permission for its proposals for land at Woodpecker Court, in Poole Street, Great Yeldham.

The site is home to a number of light industrial units but the developer had proposed to demolish them and replace them with 26 new houses.

The plans were rejected by planning officers due to fears it would not be in keeping with the character of the area and because the site is outside the village boundary and would be too isolated for residents.

However, as part of its appeal against the decision, Arboretum Partners has sought to undermine both arguments in its report outlining its grounds for appeal.

The report states: “The development would support the services in Great Yeldham, whilst also enhancing and maintaining the vitality of the rural community and its services and facilities.

“The appeal site is self-contained and is a previously developed, brownfield site, which is considered a significant benefit.

“The development can be integrated into the local character and surrounding area, both in winter and summer. The historic environment has been taken into account, and the development would not result in any harm to the significance of the listed building at Cooksferry Farmhouse.

“There would be no harm in relation to biodiversity, with suitable mitigation proposed for identified bats, and also enhancements to the landscape for biodiversity habitats.”

Great Yeldham Parish Council had objected to the plans when it was consulted and Braintree Council received a total of 149 letters from residents who were all against the proposals.

A planning inspector will now review the appellant’s case before deciding whether the initial decision to refuse planning permission should be upheld.