CONTROVERSIAL plans to build 280 homes on green belt land that is at risk of flooding have been recommended for approval by planning officers.

The application, submitted by Nordor Holdings Ltd and have yet to be given the green light by the planning committee, is for land that makes up part of the green belt in Little Thurrock Marshes in Thurrock Park Way, Tilbury.

The council received letters of objections from 88 residents and a petition signed by more than 300 people when the plans were initially submitted back in November 2015.

Objections included that the development would decrease the size of the green belt, it would increase strain on the infrastructure, the land is at high risk of flooding and the plans were contrary to planning policy.

Trevor Rawstock, of Silverlocke Road, Grays, said: “Little Thurrock Marsh is marshland and green belt. Building on it will destroy wildlife habitat.

“It is also likely to increase flood risk to housing adjacent to the green belt area.

“The plan will place housing that will overlook our property and will also spoil our view across the marsh.

“Noise levels would undoubtedly increase which would disturb our peace. It is also likely to decrease the value of our property.

“The additional housing would increase traffic, noise and pollution to Thurrock Park Way and create access problems to and from Dock Road.”

Ahead of the planning meeting to discuss the application, council officers have recommended the plans for approval despite branding it “inappropriate”.

The officer’s report states: “It is a straightforward matter to conclude that the proposals constitute inappropriate development in the Green Belt.”

In support of their plans, the developers insist in their application that there is a clear need and demand for new housing in Thurrock.

The borough needs an estimated 4,865 homes by the year 2021.

This factor was given “significant weight” by the council officer, who stated: “The current proposals would provide a benefit in contributing towards addressing the shortfall in the supply of new housing as set out in the Core Strategy policy delivery targets and as required by the national planning policy framework.”

The plans will be discussed at the next meeting of the planning committee on Thursday, June 22.