Controversial plans to redevelop a former Tiptree factory site have been slammed as unimaginative and heartless by the village's councillors and MP.

The specially-formed cross-party group held urgent talks over proposals for a Tesco supermarket and 70 homes at the disused Tiptree Book Services site.

It later issued a formal statement calling for meetings with borough planners for alternative proposals to be put forward.

The group said the plans were a wasted opportunity to breathe new life back into the village centre.

The debate was organised by MP Bernard Jenkin and involved borough councillors Alan Mogridge, Tony Webb, Mike Dale plus Essex county councillor Tony Peel.

The group said it was "deeply concerned" about the plans which have been put forward by London and Amsterdam Developments and Tesco.

As well as the supermarket - which would have space for 244 cars - the scheme also includes office space and a plot for a village community centre.

In a statement the group said: "We are deeply concerned by the lack of imagination in the proposed scheme.

"This is a once-in-a-century oppportunity to develop the centre of Tiptree. This develoment will define Tiptree's identity for the years ahead."

It added: "The people of Tiptree need alternative ideas to consider before they can make a decision."

The group, which was formed in light of local concern over the plans, said a meeting with Colchester Council planning officers should be held as soon as possible.

It believes that alternative scheme should then be drawn up for the developers to consider.

A survey of residents by the parish council revealed that 60 per cent backed the plans which will now be considered by Colchester Council.

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