TRY as the developers might, they are struggling to convince planning officers that a bid for five new homes in a Thurrock village have planning merit.

A number of applications have been put before the authority to develop a site at 40 High Road, Fobbing, with homes for the over 55s - including a proposal which included a dentist's surgery for the local community.

But they have all fallen short of winning planning approval and the latest bid, which comes up before councillors next week, is also recommended for refusal.

You can read the full application that will go before councillors next Thursday (22 October) here.