OPPOSITION councillors are calling for a full council debate over the plans to build 362 homes on the college campus site.

Plans for the housing development on South Essex College’s current Woodview campus have attracted fierce opposition from residents, who handed in a 2,221 signature-petition to Thurrock Council officials.

Phil Anderson, leader of the Conservatives, wants a debate on the petition. He said: “Over 2,000 residents have submitted a petition to Thurrock Council, and this should automatically trigger a debate at a full council meeting.

“No debate has been scheduled for the next council meeting.

“I am concerned democracy is not being seen to be done.

“There are persuasive arguments on both sides of this issue and it’s vital for our credibility as elected representatives that we get to consider them in public.”