A GRAYS councillor has 'called in' a planning application that would see a number of homes built on a green space on his ward.

Cllr Tony Fish has 'called in' a controversial plan to build on the Grays green belt in his ward of Grays Riverside.

The application was featured in a recent Nub News story, which highlighted objections to the scheme from natural history organisation the Essex Field Club.

Backing the stance of Field Club, Cllr Fish has called on the council to delve deeper into the decision, citing the importance of the natural habitat and the need for green spaces for his residents to enjoy.

Speaking to Thurrock Nub News, he said: "It is so important that we protect areas of national importance in terms of wildlife and the natural world. The proposed development could destroy an important natural habitat.

"Equally, my residents deserve to have green space to enjoy. With natural green space in short supply in my ward, we need to protect what we have."

It is likley the application will now be considered by the council's planning committee.