Another 45 homes are set to built on land next to a new 127 home estate in Braintree.

Manor Oak Homes submitted a bid for outline planning permission to build the houses off Rayne Road in January.

The land was part of Rayne Lodge Fishery and is located adjacent to Redrow Homes' ongoing Rayne Lodge Farm development.

The second phase of the development, which is a mixture of detached, semi and terrace properties, looks set to be approved by Braintree Council's planning committee.

Rayne Parish Council said it was unaware of any second stage of development when it responded to the Rayne Lodge Farm plans.

A spokesman said: "The parish council chose not to object to the outline application, simply raising concerns, and similarly with the full application by Redrow, the design was welcomed.

"It was shortly after this application was made that the parish council became aware of the phase two application.

"Had the parish council been fully aware of the facts of the entire site, then objections would have been raised at the earlier outline stage."

Several residents submitted written responses to the plans, raising concerns over the loss of countryside and the effect on the Braintree's roads and GP surgeries.

However a report by Braintree Council's planning department said the development would bring benefits to the town.

The report states: "Assessment of the planning balance must take account of the economic, social and environmental impacts of the proposed development.

"In terms of social sustainability, the proposal would introduce up to 45 new dwellings, 14 of which would be affordable.

"When considered against the lack of a deliverable five year supply and the need for affordable housing across the district significant weight is attached to these social benefits.

"The proposal would result in the generation of jobs at the construction stage and future residents would help to support to the continuation of the services which are available in the town centre would provide some economic benefits and weight is attached to this."

The council's planning committee will debate the plans next Tuesday evening.