AN UNPOPULAR planning application which will see Heybridge Lakes used for industrial fishing is expected to be decided on tonight.

The proposal would see 60 fishing platforms installed in the lakes. A 55-space car park would also be built to the south west of the site.

Maldon District Council have received over 200 comments objecting to the application, with just three supporting it.

Martin Page objects to the planning application being given approval due to the plans to build a large car park on site.

He said: “I object to a car park full stop. This area needs to be preserved as a nature habitat and not paved over for cars.

“A car park would completely change the area from a beautiful wildlife sanctuary to unsightly tarmac.

“Plus, I’m sure the luxury houses overlooking the lakes don’t want to be facing a car park.”

Others are concerned about the effect that the proposal will have on local wildlife, direct or otherwise.

Objector, Andy Field said: “Turning Heybridge pits in to a fishery cannot fail to have a seriously detrimental effect on the area as a reserve for nature and a peaceful amenity for local people to enjoy.

“The inevitable disturbance caused by a potentially large number of anglers will effect breeding birds in the spring/summer and overwintering birds that use the pits to rest and feed.

“I was a keen angler for 30 years but with the best will in the world it will be impossible to keep the area free from litter, especially discarded fishing lines which will cause serious issues for local wildlife.”

There were also objections from Natural England, the RSPB, Essex Wildlife Trust and the Environment Agency, as well as Heybridge Parish Council.

The District Council’s planning officer has recommended that permission for the development be refused due to environmental reasons, and issues with the proposed placement of the car park.