A developer has put the finishing touches to an appeal as it attempts to get planning permission for 70 new homes.

The consultation period for Go Homes' bid to overturn Braintree Council's refusal of plans to build on land off Chapel Hill, Halstead, is now over.

A planning inspector will visit the site in the coming weeks as arguments for an against the proposals are considered.

Go Homes says it has listened to the concerns raised by residents and if plans are approved, it will aim to minimise changes to the countryside setting.

Chief Design Officer Nigel Tedder said: "In response to the planning appeal and local concerns, GO Homes has made final comments on the planning application for up to 70 new homes at Chapel Hill, which includes 30 per cent affordable housing and a financial contribution to healthcare.

"These new homes will help provide much needed housing for local people and contribute to local housing targets for the overall area.

"Designed to support and enhance the local landscape, the scheme includes the retention of existing hedgerows and mature trees with further extensive landscaping designed to minimise the overall impact.

"A public green open space is proposed and every care will be taken to ensure the existing barns remain within their current setting.

"GO Homes awaits the planning inspector’s decision to allow the development to come forward.”