ANGER is building over plans for 455 new homes on green belt land, which neighbours fear will cause traffic chaos.

The controversial new development would be built on land on Rayleigh Road, Thundersley, which is surrounded by residential housing and is close to the Stadium Way industrial estate.

The huge new development could also get a new community hall, health facilities, open space and a nursery as part of the blueprint.

But residents close to the site insist the development should be refused because they fear losing the green space and traffic gridlock.

Emma Shamshoum, of Broadlands, Thundersley, said: “Our concern is when lockdown is over and everybody is back to school and work - the roads are already horrendous with traffic and air pollution.

“If we have another 450-odd houses built with maybe double the amount of people living in this small community then the roads are going to be gridlocked.

“The reason most people moved here is to get away from London and to come to a greener area. It’s defeating the object.

“It’s a total environmental disaster. You can’t get this green space back.”

Nicki Borley, from Benfleet, owns three horses that are kept on the proposed site.

She said: “I actually own horses that are kept on the land that they’re looking to do the consultation on. It’s rehoming all of those animals. It’s just a shame.

“I understand that they need to build houses but they need to think of the residents in the area.”

Paula Bevan, a Thundersley resident believes the plan needs to be reconsidered.

She said: “The traffic at the Rayleigh Weir is a nightmare already, let alone after another housing estate for 445 houses all with cars.”

The development is one of a number of sites included within Castle Point Council’s local plan which sets out a strategy for development. An online consultation starts on 22 February 2021.

A statement from developer This Land said: “This Land want to understand from residents and businesses what they consider to be the most relevant issues both on and around the site and would encourage constructive feedback. This feedback will be taken into consideration in planning for the design and delivery of the new scheme.”

See www.landeastofrayleighroad.co.uk