CAMPAIGNERS against large developments say Garden Communities should be put on hold until answers are given. Members of the Campaign to Prevent Urban Sprawl in Essex have fought against proposals to build homes at West Tey and land west of Braintree.

A further 5,000 homes were proposed for a settlement at Monks Wood, Pattiswick.

Last week CAUSE wrote to Braintree and Colchester councillors with their latest evidence.

Rosie Pearson, CAUSE secretary, said: “If West Tey is included in the plan, it is abundantly clear the views of local people count for nothing and that our councils simply do not listen.

“A total of 8,500 people signed a petition against West Tey and CAUSE has, over the past two and a half years, presented evidence to show it is the wrong place for a new town.”

Council leader Graham Butland said he wanted to work more closely with CAUSE.

Rosie said: “All councillors have been sent our most recent evidence and I hope they will do local people the service of understanding our concerns.”