COLCHESTER’S MP is making a last ditch attempt to get plans for controversial student accommodation thrown out.

Will Quince has written to Essex County Council’s leader David Finch after developer Alumno’s plans for land off Queen Street were passed following an appeal.

Campaigners were astounded to hear the plans for more than 300 student flats, a Travelodge and shops were given the go-ahead.

In February, Colchester Council’s planning committee rejected Alumno’s plans on a range of grounds.

However, the planning inspector overturned the decision following an appeal from the developers.

In an attempt to block the development, Mr Quince is asking the county council to consider preventing an agreement which would give Alumno the lease for the land.

He said: “Colchester Council has made a mockery of this process.

“My constituents, who have strong opinions on the plans, have not been properly considered.

“Local public opinion to the applications falls overwhelmingly against it and it is clear people wish to see an alternative use of the land.

“Given this, Colchester Council should never have signed the land over to Alumno.

“Many of my constituents and I were truly dismayed to hear of the recent news Alumno’s appeal had been passed.

“In light of this, I seek your assurances Essex County Council will not lift the covenant on the land.”

Colchester Council will receive a one-off payment of £980,881 for a 250 year lease agreement with Alumno.

But it is understood an agreement would need to be reached between Colchester Council, Alumno and Essex County Council regarding the covenant, which dates back to 1961 before the student rooms development goes ahead.

A spokesman for the county council said: “We received a letter from Will Quince regarding land on Queen Street in Colchester. “The leader of the council will shortly be extending an invite to him to discuss the matter face-to-face.”

A spokesperson for Colchester Council said: “The independent inspector has considered all the issues and determined the use of the land. The issue of the covenant is a matter for Essex County Council.”