A PUBLIC inquiry into the controversial decision to allow 50 homes and Thurrock’s first hospice to be built on green belt land in Horndon-on-the- Hill has been ruled out.

Angry residents had written to the Secretary for Communities and Local Government, Greg Clark to appeal against the decision after Thurrock councillors voted in favour of approving the development two weeks ago. They include a six-bed St Luke’s Hospice at Malgraves Farm, off Lower Dunton Road.

A letter from his office, dated June 26, said the Government was committed to giving more power to councils and communities.

It added: “Having had regard to this policy, the Secretary has decided not to call in this application. He is satisfied the application should be determined at a local level.

“I understand that there will be great disappointment as a result. It is however, now for the council to determine this application.”

Former Thurrock Conservative leader Ray Andrews had submitted the request for a public inquiry.

He said: “I’m shocked at his decision and I believe it’s absolutely incredible that he could take this step forwards.

“If this decision doesn’t prompt the Secretary of State to recall a planning application, then what does?”