PROTESTERS are bracing themselves for another green belt battle after developers demanded a judicial review into the decision to stop a 326-home plan.

Colonnade has applied to London’s High Court for a top level review into the proposed housing development at Coombes Farm, Rochford.

It comes after the Govern-ment’s Planning Inspectorate upheld the decision of Rochford District Council in April.

Inspector Christine Thorby concluded it was an “inappropriate development which would be harmful to the green belt”.

This followed the council’s rejection of the plan, last November, for the sprawling development off Stambridge Road.

This followed fierce opposition from residents who formed the group Residents Against Coombes Farm Expansion.

The group is now poised for more uncertainty and another fight.

Founder James Bowker said: “We knew Colonnade had six weeks to appeal. With the amount of time and money they have invested and the small cost to apply for a judicial review on top of it, it doesn’t surprise me.

“It’s not over yet.”

The group gave its views to the inquiry to highlight the huge opposition to the plan, which provoked outrage among hundreds of residents worried about loss of open land, wildlife and the impact on already-congested roads.

Mr Bowker is hopeful the refusal will stand.

He said: “I felt confident the inspector came to the right decision, and hopefully it’s robust enough to stand up.

“It is frustrating for the residents, as this has been going on for more than a year. If the review is allowed it’ll take more than a year, which is further agony for everyone.”

Keith Hudson, the district councillor responsible for planning and transportation, said: “The council is aware of what’s happening.

“We are listed on the claim form as an interested party.

“Be assured we shall monitor these proceedings with considerable interest.”