CONTROVERSIAL plans for a housing development in the centre of Halstead have suffered a backlash after being approved by councillors.

Developer AR Clarke is looking to build accommodation on the former Hunwick site, off Kings Road in Halstead.

Their plans would see nine homes, 12 flats and ten commercial units for office purposes built on the site.

But the plans, which were submitted to Braintree Council in 2019, have had heavy opposition from residents of Kings Road.

Among the concerns of residents is a fear over parking and infrastructure on Kings Road.

The new development would have road access to Kings Road and residents are concerned more vehicles and residents would cause parking and traffic chaos along the street, which they already say is inadequate.

Other concerns surrounding overdevelopment and the strain on doctors and schools were also raised.

However, despite opposition from residents, Braintree Council agreed to approve the application during a planning meeting on Tuesday.

The move is a blow for residents who have been fighting the application for more than a year.

Halstead councillor Garry Warren feels residents have been let down.

He said: “I am appalled that the plans for the Hunwicks site have been approved by the district council.

“Residents in Kings Road have been let down by developers and planners. Their concerns have been completely ignored.

“Braintree councillors had their hands tied because once again Essex County Highways failed to comment on the plans.

“Anyone with any sense can see that the roads around the site are not suitable for the proposed access points.”

“Parking for residents in Kings Road will be made even more difficult.

“Had County Highways taken the trouble to comment we may have been able to get the access to the site altered and on street parking for residents in Kings Road maintained.

“However Essex County Council once again demonstrate they care little for the residents of Halstead.”