VILLAGERS have been left angry after council officers gave permission for 20 new houses on farmland in Weeley.

Lawford-based Rose Properties was given outline permission for the houses on a two-acre site owned by Ash Farm, next to Tendring Council’s offices in Thorpe Road.

The proposals were given the green light by planning officers despite objections from a number of residents who claim the development will ruin the rural character of the village.

Detailed blueprints will still need to get the green light from planners.

Anita Campion, of Crow Lane, said: “We don’t want to be a small town. These developments will all join up and make Weeley not the friendly village we want.”

A report by Rose Builders said the site was in a sustainable location with safe vehicle and pedestrian access to village facilities, bus routes and rail links, and the development would not harm to the village’s character.