AMBITIOUS plans have been unveiled for 275 new homes.

Bloor Homes has submitted an outline planning application to Colchester Council for the homes on land off Maldon Road, Tiptree.

The plans include parking, public open space, a link road and the provision of parent drop-off area for Tiptree Heath Primary School.

Of the 275 homes, 30 per cent will be considered affordable.

A planning statement from the developers said there would be pockets of green space throughout the site, as well as designated areas of public open space.

A central refuge is also proposed opposite Tiptree Heath Primary School.

The planning statement said: “This will facilitate pedestrian crossing movements from the site to the school.

“The existing school lollipop crossing patrol would remain and be relocated to the proposed refuge.

“Following previous discussions and requests from Essex County Council Highways following a pre-application meeting, sufficient land has been set aside to potentially enable a roundabout in the future in order to facilitate a potential future link road for Tiptree.”

A dedicated off-street drop-off and pick-up area is also planned.

Parents will be able to park at this designated area and then use the proposed central refuge to cross safely to the school.

Essex County Council’s education department said a development of up to 250 homes would generate the need for up to 22 early years and childcare places, 75 primary school places and 50 secondary school places.

The report said: “Essex County Council confirmed a developer contribution would be sought to mitigate the proposals impact on the early years and childcare places.

“This has been taken into account.”

An exhibition event was held in May for Tiptree residents to view the plans.

Concerns were raised over traffic and the impact on schools and doctors’ surgeries.

One resident said: “Maldon Road is a busy road. The proposal to drop off pupils on the opposite side to the schools means they will have to cross it.

“A T-junction will exacerbate existing traffic problems at peak times.

“You have included no provision for community facilities. Tiptree is already poorly served by medical facilities.”

Colchester Council will have the final say.