MORE than 100 residents attended a public meeting to show their support for the Hands off Steeple Bumpstead community group.

The group has been fighting plans by Gladman Developments to build 95 homes in Finchingfield Road.

The initial application was rejected, but an appeal has been launched as well as new plans submitted for 65 homes on the same site.

A public meeting was held to inform residents of the appeal process and the steps they will taking in coming months.

Braintree MP James Cleverly was also present and answered questions from the public.

Ian McKenzie, chairman of Hands Off Steeple Bumpstead, said: “The meeting was well attended by a good mix of residents. The numbers alone show the village is against this.

“Mr Cleverly was happy to answer some questions from residents, and it is a boost to know he supports us.”

The group is also putting the final touches on its initial statement to pass to the planning inspectorate.

It has appointed a legal representative to aid them in the appeal process and will submit an initial statement to the planning inspectorate on December 20.

Mr McKenzie said: “We have no problem with houses being built, but everything must sustainable, and done in the proper manner.

"This development is not sustainable and anyone who lives in the village knows that. We will use our democratic right to stand up to this.”