CAMPAIGNERS have hit out after learning councillors won’t vote on controversial plans for an access ramp linking a student flats development.

Alumno, which is set to build 336 student flats, shops, a Travelodge hotel and open space on land off Queen Street, Colchester, has submitted a planning application for the new ramp to be built linking Priory Street car park.

Campaigners opposed to Alumno’s scheme have raised concerns about how the plans affect heritage assets in the area. Alumno has said no harm will be caused, but opponents are still worried.

Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell, an outspoken opponent of the scheme, said: “Elected representatives, we are told, will not be making the decision on whether to approve the application with its hideous proposal which is destined to be a permanent reminder of a council that had lost its moral compass.

“No vote will be taken and it won’t be discussed. We won’t even know what they think about it.

“Councillors are elected to make decisions. Officers should advise, but councillors should decide - it is called democracy.”

Sir Bob labelled Colchester Council’s handling of the scheme a “disgrace to the concept of local democracy” and urged officers to use “professional judgement” to reject the ramp.

He added: “The fact the planning committee has given delegated authority for this procedure should not overrule the independence of an officer to make a professional judgement, such a decision is not right.”

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A spokesman for Colchester Council said the authority was “sensitive” to the views of those affected, but plan for the ramp had already been approved.

He added: “The planning inspector left only the final technical aspects still to be decided.

“It is those minor and technical details officers are currently considering in line with normal decision-making processes, just as they do with every other planning case, and consistent with the council’s constitution.

“This means there is no requirement for it to be discussed further by any of our committees.

“These kinds of applications are always dealt with entirely by officers, as conditions which need to be put in place have already been imposed by the independent planning inspector.”