THE green light has been given to a housing development that will bring 153 new homes to Stanford-le-Hope despite concerns about traffic problems and accessibility for emergency vehicles.

Outline planning permission for the scheme off Victoria Road was given several years ago and last night's Thurrock Council planning committee had to consider the detailed plans.

Stanford-le-Hope councillor Gary Byrne was concerned about the access point to the new estate, saying 'a hell of a lot has changed in Stanford' since this was talked about five years ago.

He said: "This is an OK development but there has to be another entrance in and out. This is such a tiny, tiny entrance.

"You say you can't go back five years but a hell of a lot has changed in Stanford-le-Hope. So why can't we visit this now, it's a whole different set up in Stanford-le-Hope as the whole parking in the town has changed because of the permit scheme."

However, his concerns were pushed aside and he was told nothing could be done.

Major Projects officer Matthew Gallagher said: "We cannot revisit this, it was fixed at the time of the outline application.

"It was considered by this committee in 2014 and 20015, the item was aired by members and was discussed in detail but ultimately it was agreed so although I hear the concern from Cllr Byrne we cannot revisit this point.

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"It is not a matter for debate tonight."

Highways officer Matt Ford added: "This was fixed after extensive dialogue about the transport parameters. It was considered to be acceptable, which included accessibility of emergency vehicles.

"Members can be reassured that with was looked at extensively and we came to an agreement."

The agent for the site, James Bompass, told the committee the principle for development had already been given and that the development would deliver homes that 'Thurrock desperately needs'.

Cllr Gerard Rice added: "This is a welcome scheme, we are short of houses on the east of the borough. DP World need houses for their new workers as jobs come on stream.

"It's good news for what I would call scrubland."

The scheme was unanimously approved.