THERE are fears a new housing development could open the floodgates for hundreds of new homes in Weeley.

Developers already have outline permission for 20 houses next to Tendring Council’s offices in Thorpe Road.

Detailed plans for the site have now been unveiled.

Parish council vice-chairman Carol Bannister feared the proposed access road could pave the way for future development on farmland behind the current site.

The plans show the road leading to the rear boundary, which backs onto open fields.

It has also been designed so it can be widened in the future.

Mrs Bannister said: “It could be extended onto the field. Why else would they want to widen the road? There is nothing to say someone would get planning permission, but they are making it more probable.

“People living nearby are really distraught. They have either lived here for generations or they have moved here to get out of other areas that are being developed.

“Some have paid a premium for properties backing on to farmland.

They are horrified at the fact that forever more they will be wondering when the next phase of development will start.”

The village has been earmarked for a possible 1,100 new homes by Tendring Council as part of its local plan.

More than 650 people signed a petition opposing the controversial housing blueprint, claiming it would destroy the community and the character of the village.