FURIOUS residents have branded proposals to build another 220 homes on the outskirts of Halstead “an absolute joke”.

Gladman Developments has revealed plans for yet another new development on land off Bournebridge Hill, to the south of the town.

The developer has launched a full public consultation into the plans, ahead of putting in a formal planning application.

The company admitted: “We appreciate that people who live within the immediate vicinity of our housing proposals may be concerned about matters such as increased levels of road traffic, loss of views and many other topics.”

Residents have already expressed their anger and frustration at the idea of another planning application being submitted for so many homes in the town, claiming: “Halstead can’t take anymore.”

Halstead resident Sarah Karby said: “It’s an absolute joke, ridiculous in fact.

“So, it seems we have about 1,000 houses going up in the Halstead area, and going by statistics that say there are 2.4 people per household, that’s a minimum of another 2,000-plus people trying to sign up to an oversubscribed doctors surgery, schools bursting at the seams, no police, a high street with very little parking and an already problematic road system unable to support the current population.”

Norma Huxter has lived in Halstead almost 44 years.

She said: “I’ve seen lots of changes over the years.

“The proposed development will be off a narrow very busy road.

“The town cannot cope with such an influx of people. There are not enough shops, schools or doctors for starters, and public transport is inadequate.

“I assume that jobs for these people will probably be outside the town, making us a commuter town with no railway.

“I feel sorry for those coming here and I also assume that the proposed housing will not be of the ‘social’ kind.

“Plus we are losing more greenfield land, which saddens me greatly.”

A spokesman for Gladman said: “Gladman recognises its responsibility to respect the character of the town and needs of the existing community, as well as providing housing for new and existing residents.

“We are also fully committed to delivering additional benefits to Halstead wherever possible.

“Your comments and contributions will be received without prejudice to your rights to comment on the planning application.

“By having your say, you will have helped shape the development’s design and, where appropriate, off-site improvements if planning permission is granted.”

It is expected that up to 30 per cent of the 220 proposed homes will be affordable housing.

There will be a new public green space which will include a children’s play area, and a sustainable drainage system.

The proposal claims to benefit the town by creating a high-quality landscape setting which will be of benefit to both existing

and future residents of Halstead.

The document also states: “We believe that a development should provide an opportunity to improve the range and quality of services that are available in Halstead”

The public consultation is available at your-views.co.uk/Bournebridgehill.