Plans to build nearly 100 new homes in Bures have been thrown out.

Gladman Developments Ltd had been seeking outline planning permission to build up to 98 houses on land to the east of Colchester Road.

More than 200 people had written letters of objections to Braintree Council over the plans while Bures Hamlet Parish Council were also against the proposals.

Planning officers had recommended planning permission be refused because they believed the development would be harmful to its countryside setting.

And Braintree Council’s planning committee agreed with the officers’ report as members unanimously voted against the proposals.

Councillor Iona Parker said: “My problem with this site is it is increasing the urban sprawl down Colchester Road.

“This would be very harmful to this valued landscape.”