NEW plans for a Lidl supermarket and 130 homes in Billericay have sparked concerns among residents over “traffic chaos”.

Major proposals to build the homes, supermarket, alongside a new access road, have officially been submitted to Basildon Council for consideration.

However, residents have already reacted with fury over the plans for green belt land as they fear an “onslaught” by developers targeting open space.

Nearby resident, Gavin Taylor, 62, fears the site is likely to be eventually approved because of Basildon Council’s lack of housing plan despite concerns from the public.

He said: “Any shop that is in that area will cause chaos. The road is always blocked from Mountnessing Road up to the traffic lights.

“It is green belt too.

“There is an onslaught by developers to get all the land they can around Billericay, which is being destroyed.

“We do not need another shop either as it will bring more cars into the area.

“We were due, in the now withdrawn local plan, around 3,000 houses in Billericay. The whole process is broken.

“I don’t think the wider impact of these developments on those living nearby is often thought about.”

Back in November, Scott Properties launched an online consultation to gather views from residents.

Concerns were raised at the time about losing out on open space in favour of new homes, and the Billericay Action Group, also echoed the problems it would have on traffic.

The exact types of homes and different types are yet to be confirmed, however, in the consolation stage the developer stated 31 per cent of homes would be affordable.

The plans would see more than 250 parking spaces created, as well as 40 extra jobs, according to the application.

In the planning statement, the applicants state: “The development will make efficient use of the Site and will bring about economic, social and environmental benefits to Billericay and the borough.

“Whilst it is recognised that the site is located within the Green Belt, it is located on the edge of the existing settlement in Billericay.

“The site is partly previously developed land, and contains existing buildings other structures, and open storage which cumulatively already serve to reduce the site’s existing openness.”