RESIDENTS of a village have resoundingly backed a plan which shapes the development of the area.

A referendum was held asking whether Colchester Council should officially adopt the Eight Ash Green Neighbourhood Plan into policy.

Of those polled, 89 per cent voted in favour of adopting the plan.

Once the plan is ratified by full-council it will be used when making future planning decisions in the ward.

Turnout for the referendum on Thursday was 33 per cent.