The number of sites earmarked for housing in Rochford has been called into question in the wake of a Government grant to deliver two development projects.

Rochford District Council’s local plan, which lays out plans for future housing, is currently out for public consultation.

But John Mason, leader of the opposition Green and Rochford District Residents group, branded the council’s aim to build 7,500 homes in the district by 2037 “unconstrained”.

He said: “I am at pains to say that it is an unconstrained figure by all sorts of issues, including infrastructure and the value of the green belt. There have been a huge number of sites put forward by land owners.

“By my numbers it will be around 30 properties per 2.5 acres.

“We have a view there is no way 7,500 houses could be allocated in our area by extensions into the green belt.”

Work is under way on a mini-town, which includes 600 new homes and a primary school, in greenbelt land off Hall Road, Rochford. Now the Government has released more than £620,000 to help with the delivery of two housing projects in Rochford.

The cash comes as part of a £45million boost by the Government, which aims to kick-start the building of thousands of new homes across the country.

Plans to demolish the former Adult Community College site, in Rocheway, were approved by the council’s planning committee last year.

The scheme, which was put forward by Essex County Council, involves building 60 independent living homes for older people, alongside 14 houses for the open market.

Half of the independent living homes will be available for affordable rent.

The plans have been given a cash boost of £422,110.

Plans to convert unused district council buildings into flats, in South Street, Rochford, have also received £204,125 as part of the investment.

The council hopes a scheme to convert its own buildings into 46 homes will tackle the housing shortage.

Campaigners have raised concerns about the nature of the development, which would see four-storey blocks of flats constructed in the centre of the town.

George Ioannou, Rochford councillor responsible for enterprise, said: “I’m delighted that the council has received the funding award as part of the maximising our assets programme. “It is recognition of the work that we are doing working closely with other partners.”