PLANS for two new bungalows in the heart of Fobbing were unanimously rejected by Thurrock Council planning councillors this evening (Thursday, 2 December).

The application was for two single storey detached dwellings for people over the age of 55 on land to the rear of Ewen House, off the High Road.

Planning officers had recommended refusal for the application, which is in the green belt, and that view was endorsed by councillors.

Cllr James Halden exemplified the view of councillors, saying: "As the report states, Fobbing is a really unsuitable place for this, I can't think of a reason to support it."

Committee chairman Cllr Tom Kelly reflected on the 'poor design' of the application, while Cllr Sue Little said: "This is a lovely property as it is, this would change the scene considerably.

Committee member Steve Taylor, who represents CPRE (the countryside charity, formerly known as the Campaign to Protect Rural England) said: "This is just cramming two bungalows into somebody's back garden.

"And as to the over 55s nonsense, we have heard this all before. I think someone has just jumped onto the bandwagon to try and add this to the mix.

"This is in a conservation area and this application makes no sense whatsoever."