THE first stage of the appeal against the decision to allow a controversial housing development in Wickford will be heard at the High Court on February 19.

Developer Gleeson Homes wanted to build 200 homes on the green field Barn Hall site, off Station Lane, but met with fierce opposition from local residents.

The original planning application was rejected by Basildon Council, but that decision, although supported by the planning inspector, was overturned by the Secretary of State.

The council is appealing against the Secretary of State’s decision and the first stage of the appeal will be heard at the High Court on Thursday, February 19.

Tony Ball, cabinet member with responsibility for planning, said: “This land is highly valued by the community and they don’t want to see it built on. We will do everything we can to try to overturn the decision.”