A CAMPAIGN group is celebrating after “unnecessary” plans for 140 homes near the A414 were rejected.

Gladman Developments had submitted outline proposals for the homes on land east of Runsell View and north of Maldon Road in Danbury.

Hands Off Danbury launched a battle against the bid and more than 700 residents objected to the proposals.

Last week Chelmsford City Council refused the application on the grounds the site is outside the development boundary, did not fall within the specific form of development allowed in the countryside and no assessment for the impact the development would have on nearby areas of special scientific interest was provided.

It also found the application did not provide “sufficient information” about how the A414 and surrounding road network would be impacted.

Mark Scofield, chairman of Hands Off Danbury, said: “Chelmsford City Council have again come to the right decision.

“This development is unnecessary, unwanted and unsustainable and it would adversely affect the life of everyone in the village.

“We are all delighted with the decision but we are also very aware that as they have done in the past Gladman, may launch an appeal or even submit a new application. If that happens I’m sure residents will be ready for them.”

He added: “We believe in new homes for the village but in the right numbers and in the right place.

“We have the support of the overwhelming majority of residents, and we are determined to fight as hard and for as long as it takes to stop this development permanently.”

Hands Off Danbury helped create a national petition against rural over-development which has gathered 10,000 signatures so far.

They are one of 50 groups across the country who have formed All 4 Better Development.

See the petition at petition.parliament.uk/petitions/177333.