A DEFIANT defence of a much-loved field will be delivered by hand to every resident in Lawford as campaigners aim to raise the cash to finally see off plans to build 110 homes.

Action group No to Grange Road Development is hoping to raise thousands of pounds to fight back against a scheme to build the houses on land off Grange Road, Lawford.

Gladman Developments Limited has lodged an appeal after Tendring Council rejected the plans, which received a total of 280 letters of objection.

The group will use the cash to fund a planning advisor, who will put its case to the Government inspector, and to provide newsletters and signs to keep residents well-informed.

Campaigners say with planing permission already granted for more than 1,200 homes in the area, the scheme is unnecessary.

They cite a lack of infrastructure, including overstretched GP surgeries, schools and roads.

The site is also home to one of the few Neolithic ancient monuments in Essex.

John Hall, of Grange Road, said: "Our swords are sharpened and we are launching our defence of Lawford Tye Field.

"Due to the concern and generosity of several volunteers we have already raised over £1,000 towards the target of £5,500.

"Another group of volunteers have also secured funds to put on a public exhibition of the artefacts from the Neolithic Henge, which we are proud to have on the field."

He added: "If Gladman get planning permission then traffic will get even worse.

"Our action group is not against house building – we know that local people need houses they can afford.

"But Lawford has already agreed more than its share of new houses.

"We need time to absorb these houses first into our community before any more are agreed."

A date for the appeal hearing is yet to be set, but it is expected to be held within the next four months.

"These developers have not agreed any significant improvement to our roads, nor provision for cyclists, nor pedestrian crossings," said Mr Hall.

"Our doctors and schools are already overstretched.

"The character and open spaces of our village are under threat."

Tendring Council has confirmed the authority will defend its refusal at any planning appeal.

Gladman had not responded at the time of going to press.

To talk to a representative of the action group, call 07380 313909 and leave a message or email nograngeroaddev@gmail.com