A DEVELOPER has been criticised for its attempts to build 145 homes on land that has been deemed inappropriate for housing.

Taylor Wimpey held a public exhibition outlining its plans for a new estate off Cockaynes Lane, in Alresford.

Critics have accused developers of lodging speculative planning applications at a time when Tendring Council had not adopted a formal local plan.

Two sites in Alresford – Cockaynes Lane and St Andrew’s Close – were both withdrawn from previous versions of the local plan after objections were raised by residents.

There are no sites in the village included in draft versions of the new Tendring local plan.

An Alresford Parish Council spokesman said: “We object to the planning proposals, in their current form, for both the Cockaynes site and also the St Andrew’s Close site.

“Alresford Parish Council support the view, taken recently by Tendring Council, that no sites in Alresford are suitable for large development due to sustainability issues.

“We will work with all residents and resident groups to oppose inappropriate property development in Alresford.”

At a public consultation last month, residents voiced concerns existing roads were too narrow and the proposals were too large for a village of 810 homes.

The parish council also argued there were not enough primary and secondary school places available.

Jane Lee, 44, of Station Road, set up the Cockaynes Action Group, and has gathered more than 300 signatures opposing the development.

Taylor Wimpey has not yet submitted a planning application for the development.

A spokesman said: “We will look closely at the feedback to make sure people’s views are taken into account as much as possible as we finalise our planning application.”