HUNDREDS of homes on a "high-quality, well-designed" development are set to be given the green light from councillors. The development of 250 homes on greenbelt land off Southend Road, Wickford is planned for the former farmland.

The plans include 50 per cent affordable housing, a new junction with a roundabout off Southend Road, additional pedestrian, cycle and emergency access provided from Alicia Walk. Basildon Borough Council's planning committee is set to agree the plans on November 5.

A total of 28 letters of objection were received by the council from neighbouring residents.

The objections raise a number of concerns including; extra facilities needed to cope with 250 new homes, and additional strain on local infrastructure, which "are already operating at full capacity." There were also fears raised about overcrowding and reduced access to essential services and loss of "vital" woodland.

The council officer's report states: "Overall, the proposed layout indicates a high-quality, well-designed residential development that responds positively to the site's physical characteristics, its landscaped edges and its relationship with the existing settlement.

"The scheme would open up the site for public use and enhance connectivity through new pedestrian and cycle links to the wider area. The proposal includes generous open space provision, such as a community orchard, wildflower meadows, and formal play areas, which will support the recreational needs of future residents.

"The alignment of the primary street has been carefully considered to create a visual corridor between two existing pillboxes, reflecting the site's historical features. The application site is located within the greenbelt which is identified as a protected area and asset of particular importance. In the opinion of Officers, the proposed development would utilise grey belt land and the proposal should not be regarded as inappropriate.

"The proposed development complies with the Golden Rules, carrying significant weight in favour of the grant of permission, in accordance with the national planning police framework."