ANGRY villagers are preparing to fight plans for more than 1,000 homes in their village over the next 17 years.

Weeley parish councillors claim the proposals as part of Tendring Council’s local plan – the authority’s blueprint for housing and jobs in the coming years – would double the number of homes in the village.

Carol Bannister, vice-chairman of Weeley Parish Council, said the proposals would erode village life.

“I am aware of the dilemma faced by Tendring Council planners, but we all know that to enforce such numbers on this small rural village would destroy our community as we know it and change its character forever,” she said.

“An immense 53 hectares of agricultural land between the A133 service area and Weeley Bridge Caravan Park is being proposed as the most likely area for development, but we are told that due to its size, it will be expected to provideamix of uses.

“The parish council is in the process of ensuring that every resident in Weeley and Weeley Heath is made aware of these outrageous proposals.”

A public meeting will be held at Weeley village hall at 7pm on September 4.