A CASTLE Point Council planning chief is set to retire today – but has vowed to carry on overseeing controversial house-building plans on a part-time basis.

Ian Burchill, the council’s head of environment and community, was the architect of the Local Development Framework, which outlines the borough’s house building targets up to 2026.

The blue print included controversial plans to build on several areas of green belt including Daws Heath, in Hadleigh, and a site next to the Dutch Village, Canvey.

In December, councillors refused to vote on the framework until it had gone to public consultation.

Following the defeat, Mr Burchill faced calls to quit from Conservative councillors Bill Sharp and Colin Riley.

The plans also angered residents.

Graham Bracci, 59, of Holland Avenue, is fighting the proposals to build on Canvey.

He said: “When I first went to see the plans, Ian Burchill told me any major development will upset people some place, somewhere. Well he has upset a lot of people on Canvey.”

David Marchant, the council’s chief executive, thanked Mr Burchill for his years of hard work.

He said: “Ian Burchill has served Castle Point for 21 years, is a highly respected professional, and has been a valuable member of the team.

“His contribution to the recent improvement of the council has been considerable.”