COUNCILLORS have approved plans for up to 150 homes in Witham.

Strutt & Parker’s outline bid for homes at Conrad Road were approved by Braintree Council’s planning committee last week.

Lady Patricia Newton said: “This would be an extension of the development boundary but it is immediately adjacent to it.

This will provide an opportunity to improve that approach to Witham.”

Neighbouring Southview School raised security fears.

Stuart Henty, business manager, said: “Currently we have a natural tree barrier and a low fence, which has proved sufficient in deterring people from accessing the school.

“However with a residential development this would not be effective.”