UKIP’s head of policy believes residents should be allowed to vote on large planning proposals, such as the mammoth application to build 501 homes in Aveley.

Tim Aker, who lives in Aveley, made the comments as UKIP declared their opposition to the plans at the former London Fire Brigade Sports and Social Club, which are currently with the secretary of state.

Party members, including Aveley and Uplands ward councillor Robert Ray have written to Ed Pickles, the secretary of state.

Opponents to the plans, which were approved at a planning meeting last month, are nervously waiting to see if Mr Pickles will rubberstamp the plans.

Voicing his opposition, Mr Aker said: “The only way to settle these development issues is at the ballot box. Local residents must be allowed to have a say on large scale developments that will change the shape and character of their communities. I remember Aveley being a village. These developments will irreversibly change the community.”

Mr Ray said: “501 homes off Purfleet Road is completely unacceptable. The local infrastructure and services can’t cope and the people haven’t been consulted.”