A CAMPAIGN group has been launched and an online petition set up to oppose a housing development in Blackshots, Grays.

Members of Blackshots Residents Objection Group say the proposed residential development of 54 dwellings on Blackshots Lane threatens the local environment, community cohesion, and infrastructure stability.

On 23rd January, developers Stonebond announced plans to develop this area and subsequently submitted a planning application. The application has already received 13 letters of objection from local residents and there is still time to post a comment via this link – but the portal is scheduled to close tomorrow.

Stonebond detail the reasons why they believe they have a suitable plan in a statement that can be read via this link. It includes a commitment to 27 affordable units within the development, saying they will be integrated into the southern part of the site, to 'allow for a degree of grouping which will allow for take-up and long-term management by a registered provider in the future'.

One of the organisers of the campaign group is local resident Faye Peake, who said: "I live in a bungalow and this new development is to be  built directly on our boundary, so effectively looking into our homes.

"The initial meeting was with Stonebond  in February and they had boards that showed plans of the development, though representatives of Stonebond were reluctant to go into detail or talk.

"Some residents did not receive letters to that 'consultation' meeting and others have not received letters from the council to notify them about the proposal. It seems it's up to us to spread the word.

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Residents have noticed differences between the planning submission and the consultation.

"We also notice differences in what was put to us for 'consultation' and what is going before the council.

"Residents have had difficulty in submitting objections on the council's website and the deadline date looms tomorrow (Thursday, 2 April). We ask they extend the deadline until next week so everyone has the chance to make their point.

"The letter I received from  Thurrock Council was dated 12 March 2026, however I didn't receive it until 20 March and I expect others have had similar delayed notification."

The online petition says: "As residents of Grays, it's vital we stand against these plans to protect our community's interests.

"Blackshots Lane is a cherished part of Grays, providing a green space that supports wildlife, recreation, and contributes to the area's rural charm. Developing this land will not only disrupt the habitat of local species but will also erode the community's access to open spaces, impacting residents' quality of life.

Views of the planned site.

"Moreover, adding extensive residential structures to the area will put a strain on existing infrastructure. Local roads, already congested, will face increased traffic, raising safety concerns for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers. Essential services such as schools, medical facilities, and public transportation might not cope with the increased demand, leading to a decline in service quality.

"Environmentally, this development poses significant risks. The ecology of Blackshots Lane supports diverse flora and fauna, contributing to local biodiversity.

"Concreting over this area could lead to increased flood risks as natural water drainage systems are disrupted, and carbon emissions rise due to the loss of vegetation.

"We urge the local council to reconsider any approvals granted to this project. There should be a thorough environmental impact assessment and community consultation. The needs and voices of local residents must be prioritized over commercial interests.

"Join us in preserving the heart and future of Grays – sign here."

Local residents are being invited to sign this petition to prevent the proposed residential development on Blackshots Lane and help protect our community's environment and quality of life for generations to come.