SENIOR councillors have accused critics of "misleading" people in Wivenhoe over plans to build thousands of new homes on the Colchester-Tendring border.

Paul Smith, leader of Colchester Council, and Tim Young, deputy leader, issued a joint statement, damning any insinuation the authority was attempting to hoodwink residents.

The statement said: "It has come to our attention that residents in Wivenhoe have received misleading information about the initial concept plans currently out for consultation regarding the Tendring/Colchester borders garden community.

“It is being claimed we are looking to develop some of the homes proposed for the site on land south of the A133.

"We can categorically assure the people of Wivenhoe this is not being proposed by this administration.

“As well as delivering the much needed housing and infrastructure north Essex needs, our ambitious plans are to create communities.

"Splitting the homes across the A133 goes against the principles and aims of the garden communities project.

“The outdated maps being circulated show the original thinking of the consultants who developed the outlines for the sites earlier this year. However we have always publicly dismissed this proposal."

The pair added the only proposed development south of the A133 is on the Essex University campus and a new park and ride.

The statement added: "It is important that as many people as possible have their say as part of our consultation on the initial concept plans to help us shape this pioneering project.

"However, it is crucial people have the real facts to help them make up their minds rather than those being peddled purely to scaremonger.”

To have a say on the new towns on the Colchester-Braintree and Colchester-Tendring borders, go to colchester.gov.uk/currentconsultations or by visit one of the public events and exhibitions being held across the borough.