CONTROVERSIAL plans to build retirement homes at a former animal rescue park have been described as an “unfolding tragedy” for the beauty spot.

Developers McCarthy and Stone have submitted plans for 42 apartments and 11 bungalows to be built at Mistley Place Park, in New Road, Mistley.

Resident Fenella Falconer, of South Street, Manningtree, said she strongly objected to the application.

She said: “The precious green space, the unspoilt river views, the teeming wildlife - the very things we love and value about Mistley Place Park - are under huge threat.

“There is simply not the infrastructure in place to cope with an additional 53 homes on top of the huge number of new properties recently built and currently being built.

“With so much building all around are already under significant strain.

“We place enormous value on the beautiful place where we live and, in my opinion, watching it slowly and irreversibly get swallowed up by new housing developments is a tragedy unfolding.”

McCarthy and Stone said it held a public consultation in February, which was used to guide the application.

The plans include associated amenity works and landscaping, as well as a new access to New Road.

Mark Bryan, divisional development director for McCarthy and Stone, said: “Our proposals will deliver a high-quality, attractive development that will both deliver much-needed older people’s housing in the area, but also enhance the remainder of Mistley Place Park for the benefit of the community.”

Parish Council will debate the plans at its meeting on May 11.