RESIDENTS have voiced their anger after plans were approved for new homes on a wildlife site.

Outline planning permission has been given to the scheme for up to 45 homes on land south of St Andrew’s Close, Alresford.

Tendring Council’s planning committee approved the proposal with seven votes in favour and two abstentions. Parish councillor Frank Belgrove said: “It is absolutely extraordinary they could approve plans for 45 homes on a wildlife site. The parish council is quite disappointed by this.

“This area has been described as a wildlife site by Essex Wildlife Trust.”

Although it isawildlife site, it is not designated as such by Natural England and it was argued the plans could help enhance the ecology.

The plans for the homes also include a new village square and public green.

Tendring Council also imposed 20 conditions and a legal agreement must also be completed within six months to set out the developer’s contribution to open space, affordable housing and education.

Planning officer Susanne Ennos said the site is currently ploughed grade two agricultural land close to the village primary school, church and recreation ground.

“This location can be developed in a way it will not harm the character of the surrounding area,”

she added.

Alresford Parish Council objected to the proposal and the district council also received 42 letters of objection.

Councillors heard the site meets the necessary criteria for sustainable development in economic, social and environmental grounds.