MORE than 100 residents have put their names to a letter calling for an inspector to throw out a controversial planning appeal.

Campaigning Dorian Kelly has written to the Planning Inspectorate setting out protesters’ objections to Alumno’s proposed development of land off Queen Street, Colchester.

The letter outlines a raft of planning legislation-based objections to the scheme, which features 336 student rooms, a 87-bed hotel and retail units.

More than 100 residents have also subscribed to the content of the letter, giving their personal reasons as to why the scheme is unsuitable for the area.

Fiona Annand labelled the scheme “totally inappropriate”.

“It is far too big for the space available, out of character with surrounding historic and cultural buildings,” she said.

Professor Peter Patrick said: “The development of student accommodation adjacent to the Roman wall, overshadowing the iconic Firstsite and within the precious heritage and Cultural Quarter of Colchester is neither wanted nor welcome.”

Daisy Marsden said the development was the wrong direction for what is considered the town’s Cultural Quarter.

She added: “This area of Colchester is just beginning to find its feet, taking a big step away from betting shops, amusement arcades and kebab shops.

“People have worked tirelessly to bring an attractive and community minded change and a block of student accommodation would be a huge step backwards.”

Mr Kelly said he expects the number of signatories to rise significantly before the inquiry opens in October.

His letter states: “It is apparent this development does not have the confidence of the people of Colchester with little appetite for this kind of use of the land, and so much of the unknown as to the future uses to which this land will be put for 250 years into the future.

“This lack of confidence is evidenced by a near-record number of objections, some of which are simple and from the heart, others are made on strong research and material planning grounds.

“Most would prefer an open access use of some kind, not a private development. Very few people think this is a good idea.

“There is little support elsewhere. In particular the owners of the nearby shopping area do not believe this is in their economic interests.”

Colchester Council’s planning committee unanimously rejected the development giant’s plans in February, despite officers’ recommending approval. The authority will defend its decision to reject the plans over disabled access and design issues at the six day inquiry with the help of a team of planning consultants.