A development of six homes and garages in Mile End, Colchester, has been approved despite the opposition of nearby residents.

The scheme for Turner Road and land next to 13 Thornwood was given the go-ahead by Colchester councillors. The council received 24 letters from residents and a petition with 73 signatures from residents in Thornwood, Stammers Road and Turner Road.

Concerns included the houses with rooms on three floors overlooking existing homes, extra traffic in Thornwood and hampering access to Turner Road in an emergency. The scheme was also opposed by Myland Parish Council.

Patricia Sanderson (Con, East Donyland) said: "I am getting weary and saddened by the fact that every time three-storey properties are designed I can't see any reason why three-storey properties are OK."

But planning officials told councillors that people living in two-storey properties can put rooms in their roof without permission.

The scheme was granted conditional approval, including a condition that a cottage at number 46, which is not listed, should not be demolished.

By Julia Gregory

Reporter's e-mail: julia_gregory@thisisessex.co.uk

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