PRITI Patel has welcomed a council’s decision to refuse planning permission to build more than 250 new houses in Tiptree.

The Conservative MP praised the decision by Colchester Borough Council to refuse a planning application by Bloor Homes for 255 homes next to Peakes Close and Maldon Road.

The controversial proposals were rejected on the basis that they would lead to the “harmful urbanisation of the village”.

Ms Patel, who objected to the housing development, said: “These plans would have represented over-development in Tiptree and put huge new pressures on our roads and public services.

“Not only would the development have caused serious safety concerns for pupils at Tiptree Heath Primary School, which is opposite the proposed site, but these homes would have harmed the environment and the local landscape.”

The Tory politician added: “The refusal is a big win for the Tiptree community and I will continue to support residents in opposing these plans in the event that there is an appeal.”