RESIDENTS in Stanford-le-Hope are being invited to air their views on a major new development planned for the town.

Hills Residential and Mersea Homes are to submit a planning application to Thurrock Council next month to develop new riverside housing, together with community and business facilities, at Stanhope Industrial Park.

The developers are optimistic that consultation with local people is the key to winning approval for the scheme and leading figures in the community have already spoken of their fears if the park is developed to its full industrial potential.

Tony Guyon, of the town's influential Hope Committee, told the Gazette: "The Industrial park down Wharf Road is the subject of much debate of late with a development company putting forward a plan to develop a residential-led mixed use scheme on the site to the Council only to have it rejected as being premature and be told that there is currently consent for a further 302,000sq ft industrial expansion.

"In the worst case this could mean that if the industrial route was taken to the full then Wharf Road (and by extension Corringham Road, Church Hill and surrounding roads) will have an expediential rise in heavy lorry traffic just when much has been done in road calming to discourage such traffic in the town.

"This, of course, is worst case and nobody -- developers, council or residents -- wants to see it happen but as permission exists it is remains an option." Mr Guyon believes consultation is the way forward and is urging local people to attend a special debate on the plan next week.

He added: "It is the understanding of the Hope Committee that this project is in a 'development hell' where things move very, very slowly which gives us the chance to consult with residents.

"The development company will have their own presentation soon but the next Hope Committee meeting will include a special debate to decide our position on the development so I urge you to start your active citizenship by coming and having your say in the debate."

The meeting will take place on Thursday, September 8, starting at 7.30pm at East Thurrock Community Centre, Corringham Road, Stanford.

Louise Man, spokesperson for the developers, has also announced plans for a public meeting. She said: "Hills Residential and Mersea Homes are keen to hear local people's views and will be holding a public exhibition on October 11 and 12.

"At the exhibition, local residents and interested parties will be able to discuss their views and explore with the developers how the scheme will benefit the wider Stanford-le-Hope community.

"Hills Residential and Mersea Homes are committed to working closely with Thurrock Council and the local community groups to ensure the redevelopment of Stanford Industrial Park is sustainable and can deliver tangible benefits to Stanford-le-Hope."