A DECISION on whether to grant outline planning permission for more than 2,000 homes on Green Belt land between Bulphan and West Horndon has been put on hold.

Thurrock Council's planning committee voted to defer the application for a site visit after concerns were raised about the scale and impact of the proposed development at Tillingham Hall.

The scheme, submitted by Horndon St Marys LLP and managed by Iceni Projects, seeks to transform 257 acres into a mixed-use community featuring 2,100 homes—half of which would be affordable—alongside a primary school, hotel, care home, commercial space, and community facilities. Plans also include a transport hub, upgrades to West Horndon Station, and new pedestrian and cycle routes.

Opposition was led by West Horndon Parish Council, with councillor Lesley Lewis warning the project would "directly conflict with the core purpose of Green Belt policy." She said: "This land plays a vital role in preventing urban sprawl and safeguarding the rural character of West Horndon. Approval would set a harmful precedent, eroding long-established protections and encouraging further incremental development. Local schools, healthcare, drainage and utilities are already under pressure."

Essex County Council also raised transport concerns. Ashley Heller, head of transport future communities, said: "This scale of development should provide alternatives to car travel. West Horndon station is the biggest asset, but the plans squander the opportunity to improve access and create a sense of place around the station."

Defending the scheme, Leona Hannify of Iceni Projects said: "Thurrock is ambitious and unafraid of growth, provided it is well-planned and infrastructure-led. West Horndon has immense untapped potential, with strong strategic connections and an underutilised railway station at its heart."

Labour councillor Steve Liddiard highlighted the borough's housing crisis, noting: "There are 673 families in temporary accommodation costing £1 million a month and another 7,000 families on the waiting list. I can't wait any longer for this to be relieved."

Committee chairman Cllr Michael Fletcher acknowledged the urgent need for housing but said: "The principle is great, but is the location right? I don't believe we're in a position to agree."

The full debate can be viewd via this link: https://thurrock.public-i.tv/core/portal/webcast_interactive/1036448