CONTENTIOUS revised plans to build 27 new homes in a village are set to be refused by councillors for a second time.

Tiptree-based Wilkin & Sons has submitted fresh plans to build the development on land between Brook Close and Strawberry Lane, in Tolleshunt Knights, in September.

The jam factory’s previous bid had been rejected by Maldon District Council in June due to concerns over the impact it would have on the character of the area and the site being in a flooding zone.

Bosses at Wilkin & Sons amended the proposals and returned with a new bid which included apartments, bungalows and houses.

But 42 residents submitted letters of objections and the plans were objected to by Tolleshunt Knights Parish Council.

The council raised concerns on 14 points including the impact on the character of the village, concern over increased traffic on Strawberry Lane and the impact on wildlife.

Maldon District Council’s north western area planning committee is due to decide on the plans on Monday.

Officers have recommended the bid is refused.

The report said the site “prevents the coalescence of Tolleshunt Knights and Tiptree” and the proposed development would “fundamentally alter the open character” of the north west side of the village.

It added: “If developed, the site would be disconnected and isolated from the existing settlement, which has limited access and connectivity with the existing village thus would represent an unsustainable form of development.

“The proposed development would fail to protect and enhance to the character and appearance of the rural area and the built form would have an urbanising effect resulting in an unwelcome visual intrusion into the undeveloped countryside.”

Officers also raised concerned about no signed legal agreement.