Councillors gave a resounding no to plans for a large estate that would “create another Burnham.”

Burnham town councillors discussed plans by Pigeon Land Ltd to build 317 homes on land between Chandlers and Creeksea Lane.

It is split into two parts - a full application for 113 homes and re-design of Maldon Road, and a less detailed outline proposal for 185 homes, 50 to 60 bed care home, 14 sheltered housing bungalows, children’s nursery, a 4.32 hectare expansion of Burnham Business Park and five hectares of open space.

Land has also been earmarked for a possible medical centre, primary school and food store.

Councillor Neil Pudney said: “I think what we are being asked is for a second Burnham on Crouch.”

Maldon District Council will make a decision on the application at a later date.