PLANS to build eight new homes in Stanford-le-Hope were unanimously thrown out by planning councillors this evening (Thursday, 9 January).

The proposal for the new homes in the back garden of a bungalow known as Windy Ridge on Branksome Avenue were recommended for refusal by planning officers and though officer Nadia Houghton told members that in principle there was merit in the plan, it was considered to be overdeveloped.

Local councillor Gary Byrne, who sits on the planning committee, said there was no way that the scheme should win approval because of the impact on local traffic, among other issues.

He told the meeting: "This is immediately going to put more traffic on Branksome which is already a dangerous road and we are trying to find ways to reduce traffic. There is nowhere to park and this should be ruled out, it will bring approximately 20 per cent more traffic to that little corner."

Cllr Angela Lawrence appeared to show some sympathy with the applicants asking why it wasn't possible to have more dialogue and consultation with them prior to the matter coming to a meeting.

She said: "There should be more consultation between the council and building companies before wasting their time and money. It would be nice if Thurrock had more consultation."

Ms Houghton told her that pre-application advice had been given to the applicants.

Committee chair Tom Kelly pointed out that it often happened that developers came forward with one plan that would be rejected then came back with another smaller one, despite consultation. However, he added: "Clearly they are trying to get the most out of this piece of land but this is completely a no no."

Read more on this application via the red buton below.