A PUBLIC inquiry into an appeal over plans to build 67 homes in Mistley is to be heard in the New Year.

Tendring Council refused planning permission for the scheme on land at the back of New Road in April.

Hollins Strategic Land LLP and Grasmere Assets Essex Ltd lodged an appeal in a bid to get that decision overturned.

A planning inspector has now been appointed for the public inquiry which will take place at the council's offices in Weeley starting at 10am on January 9.

The 2.93 hectare site in New Road is currently in agricultural use and the application is for the homes with a vehicle access via existing garden land between numbers 8 and 10.

Mistley Parish Council also objected to the proposal.