DEVELOPERS of a proposed 52 home development in Latchingdon say they remain committed to delivering the houses.

The future of the development had been in doubt following a decision by Maldon District Council.

The houses are due to be built on land west of Bridgeman's Green in Latchingdon.

The Council refused to remove a planning condition from the proposal at a meeting on July 18.

The condition states that 60 per cent, or 31, of the homes must be either one or two bedroom properties.

Developers, Moat Homes Ltd., wanted this to be lowered to 15 homes, or 29 per cent. They argued that the plan would impact the land value and make it difficult to purchase the site and deliver affordable housing.

However, since the decision, Moat have said that they remain determined to build in the area.

A spokesman for the developers said: “Moat are of course disappointed with the decision, however, we remain committed to working with Maldon District Council and our partners to deliver much needed homes in the local area.”

The removal of the condition had been supported by the Council’s planning officer, however Councillors voted against it.

Latchingdon Parish Council, who had previously opposed the bid, were pleased with the Council’s decision.

When consulted about the removal of the planning condition, they said: “We need more social housing which are smaller than four and five bedroom houses.

“The village needs smaller starter homes not more large houses, so that young people can afford to remain in their village.”

Council Chairman, Dave Moore said: “The refusal by Maldon District Council to the amendment to the 52 properties on Bridgeman’s Green really is excellent news.

“Following the original appeal where we at the council objected, and those at Maldon District Council objected, only for it to be subsequently approved on appeal, to now have it rejected again is really good. It is democracy in action.”

“It was very frustrating when it got approved in the first place but the village has now accepted it, although begrudgingly as nobody really wants it.

“We will have 52 homes in Latchingdon, 60 per cent of which will be affordable homes for the village, and we will do everything to maintain that.”