AN MP has come out against plans to build 500 homes west of Rayleigh.

Mark Francois, Tory MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, has submitted a formal objection to Rochford District Council over Countryside Property’s outline planning application.

Greenbelt land between London Road and Rawreth Lane was allocated as a space for 550 homes by the district council and last month Countryside submitted their application for up to 500.

Mr Francois, who lives in Rayleigh, is concerned at the application’s lack of detail when it comes to making improvements to roads, flood management, school and health facilities.

He said: “We do need some new housing in the area for young people to find a place to live, but that should only go ahead if the related infrastructure is provided.

“The developers have used lots of warm words in the proposal, but have given no firm guarantees.

“I do not believe they should be given planning permission unless and until these guarantees are provided in writing, with firm sums of money to accompany them. In short, no houses without the associated infrastructure, and that is why I have objected.”

The outline planning application proposal includes open spaces, land for a potential primary school and a non-residential site which could be designated as a medical centre.

A spokesman for the council said: “We can confirm we have received an objection from the local MP with regards to this application.

“This will be considered alongside any other comments/ objections which are received in relation to this matter.

“The target date for the application to be reported to the development committee is January 29, 2015.”

Mike Lambert, planning director at Countryside, said: "The principal issues raised by Mark Francois regarding highways and flooding are the subject of our ongoing discussions with Essex County Council's Highways Department and the Environment Agency as part of the current planning application.

"In addition, we have identified siters for both a school and a doctor's surgery in our proposals should there be a need for them on site.

"We will continue to work with Rochford District Council to resolve these issues."