ENGLISH Heritage does not back plans to build hundreds of homes in St Osyth, residents have been told.

Owners of St Osyth Priory want to raise millions of pounds to fund repairs to the ancient monument. They are seeking special permission to build 300-plus homes on priory land.

The so-called enabling development hinges on getting vital support from English Heritage. Tendring Council planning officer Gary Pullan told a public meeting the priory had not convinced heritage chiefs.

He said: “It is the view of English Heritage the survey and cost plan work the applicant has done does not make a sound case for enabling development.”

The meeting, called by the parish council and attended by about 200 residents, also heard Tendring Council is trying to get the go-ahead to make three more reports public.

They include information about what the priory is worth and how much needs spending on repairs.

Mr Pullan said: “The documents are fundamental to you and your parish commenting on them.’’ Campaigners against the priory plan claim the extra housing will devastate the village.

The Sargeant family, who own the listed monument, say it will turn the priory into a national tourist attraction and boost the economy.

They want to create a visitor centre, wedding venue and function suite.