Plans are currently underway to develop a substantial housing project in Essex, proposing nearly 2,000 new homes, alongside a supermarket, a public house, and a general practitioner’s surgery. The site, referred to as North Benfleet Hall, is located between Pound Lane, Bowers Gifford, just outside Pitsea, and the A130, to the north of Benfleet.

Public consultation surrounding these proposals is already open, with a significant event scheduled for March 22. The initiative is spearheaded by Croudace Homes, which intends to construct approximately 1,800 residential properties in the area.

However, the plans have elicited considerable opposition from the local Conservative Party, who have raised concerns regarding the potential impact on the existing landscape and community. Kevin Blake, deputy leader of the Basildon Conservatives, expressed his apprehension regarding the development, stating, “I know this area, it’s farmland. If this is greenbelt, as I suspect, we should not be building supermarkets or pubs on this land. I know we need more housing but we’ve already got pubs, let’s support existing businesses.”

Blake described the sheer volume of proposed homes as “a ridiculous amount,” suggesting that it may be excessive for the area. He indicated a need for more detailed scrutiny of the plans once they are formally submitted, commenting, “There is always a worry about local homes for local people, and we could even see the new homes being used for homeless families – it’s being done in other places. This is a lovely area and community and I worry this means loss of a community asset.”

In addition to Blake, Andrew Sheldon, Conservative county councillor for South Benfleet and a former leader of Castle Point Council, also voiced his concerns. Sheldon stated that the development would be situated right on the boundary of Basildon Council and Castle Point. He remarked, “The Labour Government is trying to force local authorities to let developers build thousands of homes in South Essex every year, but our infrastructure is already close to breaking point and won’t be able to cope.”

Sheldon highlighted potential consequences for local traffic, noting that the development could exacerbate congestion at Sadlers Farm, adversely affecting both Benfleet and Canvey Island. He expressed hope that Castle Point Borough Council would take a strong stance against the development on behalf of local residents.

Croudace Homes has been approached for comments regarding the allegations and concerns raised by local officials and residents.

Source: Noah Wire Services