VILLAGERS have been having their say on proposals to build 120 new homes.

A public consultation organised by Voice - Villagers’ Opinions in Copford and Easthorpe - gave residents the chance to have their say on proposed development off Queensberry Avenue and Hall Road.

At the moment, the proposals are part of Colchester Council's local plan, which details where can be developed in the borough for the next 17 years.

The event was attended by Kevin Bentley, who represents the area on Colchester Council, alongside fellow Conservative councillor Jackie Maclean.

The event was arranged to give residents a forum to voice their opinions because the area has no neighbourhood plan.

Mr Bentley said: "We are happy to engage with local people through Voice and in the absence of a neighbourhood development plan, this group is the best way forward.

"If they can outline local opinion on the sites currently being considered and possibly identify any alternatives we have not yet looked at, we will listen to their feedback and take their views into account before making any final decisions on further development in the parish."

Residents' concerns centre on the scale of the development, a lack of infrastructure as well as parking problems at Marks Tey train station.

There are also fears over the impact the developments would have on wildlife.

Nigel Sagar, chair of Voice, added: "We will now draw together all the opinions we have collected from local people and submit a report to Colchester Council so we can work together to develop the parish in the best way for the community."

He said the meeting, which attracted 125 villagers, showed the strong feeling against the proposals.

Colchester Council's pre-submission local plan is due to be published in June, when the public will be asked for their views ahead of a final draft of the plan.

Colchester Borough Council’s Pre-Submission Local Plan, which details development possibilities all over the borough, is due to be published in June for further public consultation over the summer.