CONTROVERSIAL plans to build a new estate on the edge of Halstead have been recommended for approval by planning officers.

Community group Hands off Halstead was launched to battle the ‘unsustainable’ development, and have now issued a call to arms ahead of next Tuesday’s Braintree Council planning meeting, where a decision is expected.

Gladman Development’s submitted plans in April to build 205 homes on land off Sudbury Road, but were immediately met with angry residents as more than 1,300 submitted objections, including Halstead Town Council.

Martin Walker, chairman of Hands off Halstead, said: “It is a disgrace, and how planning officers have come to this decision I will never know.

“The reports skims over so many issues, which are major issues to residents.

Our objections were all so concise, but they have been glossed over.

“Now we need as many bums on seats for the meeting. This is our last chance to demonstrate we care, and really show this is what people want.”

Braintree Council planning officers have recommended a host of financial contributions to be included in the agreement.

If plans are approved next Tuesday, the developer would be instructed to contribute almost £1 million to primary school and early years provision, more than £77,000 to health care and £94,771.50 to the new Halstead Community Centre fund.

Objections included the site not being allocated for development, harm to the character and appearance of the area, poor road infrastructure, and impact on schools and health services.

Halstead Town Council objected on the grounds of increased traffic at an accident blackspot, saturated infrastructure and a loss of green space.

The developers declined to comment.

Hands off Halstead is offering to help arrange transport to Tuesday's planning meeting, contact together@handsoffhalstead.co.uk or through their Facebook page.