A SCHEME to build up to 240 new homes in Kirby Cross has been rejected.

The plans for land to the east of Halstead Road, Kirby Cross, included a community hub with either a 40-bed care home or a healthcare facility.

The plans, put forward by Welbeck Strategic Land and Elizabeth Clarke, also included a parking area of up to 30 vehicles, a children’s play area, a kick-about area and footpaths.

The application was turned down on Thursday night by five votes to three by Tendring Council’s planning committee.

The reasons for refusal were that councillors were not happy with traffic safety, traffic management, loss of part of the green gap, drainage arrangements and the fact the site was not allocated for residential development.

Planning officer Morne Van Rooyen said: "It is currently agricultural open land located within the green gap.

“Essex County Council and the developer have come up with a traffic lights scheme of the junction of Halstead Road and Frinton Road and a dedicated left hand lane at the next roundabout to tackle traffic issues.

“It also meets the necessary criteria for economic, social and environmental sustainability.”

But the proposal was opposed by Frinton and Walton Town Council as well as Kirby Residents’ Association. The council also received 169 letters of objections from residents.

There were concerns that along with other developments proposed Kirby Cross is set to increase by between 20 and 25 percent.