A joint round-the-table meeting has been held in Brightlingsea between organisations concerned over plans to develop the former James and Stone jetties.

Brightlingsea Action Town Quay Association called the discussion meeting and invited representatives from others interested in the waterfront which included the Harbour Commission, Brightlingsea Society, local and district councillors and the yacht club.

Jim Lawrence, chairman of the association, said the general opinion of those present was the proposals as shown on the developer's concept sketch were far too high and too large.

He said they would be out of perspective with the rest of the town, would lose visual amenities and there would be problems in the harbour.

"All the parties are now waiting to see what the formal planning application will show," he said.

Developer Hampstead Homes has said it is due to submit an application for the marina complex to Tendring Council by the end of February. It could include 170 accommodation units including blocks of flats.

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