A controversial retirement village could receive the green light tonight.

Maldon District Council’s planning officers have recommended the 238-bed retirement village off Maldon Road, in Burnham, for approval, despite strong objections from the community and Essex County Council.

The development, proposed by construction company Think Green Land will include 103 bungalows, a 70-bed care home, 55-unit independent living building, shops, sports facilities and a new medical centre.

Planning officer Anna Tastsoglou said: “The proposed development would introduce a new mixed use, but primarily residential, development, which would create a self-sufficient retirement community.

“Although is it acknowledged that the development would alter the current character of the site and the surrounding area, it is considered that substantial attempts have been made by the applicant to mitigate the impact of the development on the countryside and be sympathetic to the layout and built pattern of the existing developed area.”

At least 30 of the 100-plus homes will be affordable housing, and another 50 extra care and independent living units will also be made affordable.

Solar panels will be installed on the roof of the independent living units to generate electricity and for residents to re-charge their electric vehicles.

Concerns have been raised about the plans from residents as well as Essex County Council, which has said the location could lead to “social isolation” for residents.

Samantha Corbett, who objected to the proposal, said: “Burnham, due to its isolated location, already struggles to attract doctors, teachers and qualified nursing staff.

“It will not be able to endure an influx of such a large number of individuals or families in such a short space of time.

“Additionally, as the proposed on-site GP, dentist, optician and dispensing chemist are likely to be a private offering, new residents might not wish to avail themselves of these services or indeed be able to afford to regularly pay what will be premium prices, thus choosing to use the local services.

“The current surgeries will not be able to cope with this added burden.”

The NHS had also previously raised concerns about the capability of the retirement village to deliver effective care for its residents.

But Mrs Tastsoglou said: “Although some concerns were originally raised in relation to the proposed medical service on site, this has been overcome.

"No objection has been raised and the applicant has confirmed that contribution towards NHS services would be secured.”

A decision on the application is expected to be made by Maldon District Council in Burnham tonight.