PLANS to build 70 homes in Hockley has sparked debate among families living nearby.

Developer Charles Church has submitted a planning application to redevelop the Pond Chase Nursery, Folly Lane, Hockley.

Some residents feel the more affordable homes are vital whereas others believe the effects of the homes on the town outweigh the need for housing.

The developer says the homes, ranging from one bedroom to five-bedroom family homes, will cater for local need to help young people and families get a step on the property ladder.

John Mason, Rochford District councillor, said: “The Hockley Residents’ Association has taken issue that this is in the Core Strategy at 50 and 70 are proposed.”

Plans include use of the existing access from Folly Lane, with improvements made to improve visibility and traffic calming measures to reduce speeds throughout the development Carol Dutton, 68, of Thorpe Road, Hawkwell, said: “I think the traffic is a problem and heavy goods vehicles coming down our roads all the time is a big problem.

“I’m not in principle against building on brownfield land, but we have had a lot of building in this area. I’m of two minds, but I think this area is being hit out of proportion, it’s too much.

" It isn’t a big community here and I there are better places to build. “ John Furness, 70, of Hockley, supports the proposals, especially the affordable housing element.

“Hockley is a really expensive place to live and a lot of young people cannot afford to stay in the area where they grewup. These plans will provide affordable housing and homes through Help to Buy and we particularly like the shared equity opportunities that will be available.

“We fully support these plans because Hockley really needs these new homes.’”

A spokesperson from Charles Church added: “We are keen for this development to make positive use of brownfield land, replacing the existing industrial buildings with high quality, attractive new homes and landscaped open spaces.

“Our public consultation found there is a real appetite for affordable housing locally, and we hope these new homes will help local young people and families to get a step on the housing ladder.”