CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating after plans to build 200 homes in Boreham were thrown out by Chelmsford Council.

Developer Iceni Projects wanted to build the homes on land close to the Lion Inn, in Main Road, Campaign group Boreham Conservation Society said the plans, coupled with the nearby Beaulieu developments, which will see 3,600 homes built as well as a business park and a train station, would result in the village of Boreham becoming just an extension of Chelmsford.

Chairman Alan Swash was delighted with the decision, but said the group wasn’t celebrating yet as it waited to find out if Iceni would appeal.

He added only half of the group’s work was done, with two more developments that would see 150 homes built near Plantation Road and an Audi showroom and workshop, off Paynes Lane, up for consideration before the end of the year.

Mr Swash said: "We’re really pleased with the result, but there’s now the other applications we need to be heard on.

"We just need to keep people in the village informed so they can continue to make their views heard."

Speaking about the huge wave of support the group has generated, Mr Swash added: "It demonstrates what a strong community we have in Boreham.

Its people are very much together.

"You hear policitians talk about strength of community, but when you see it in motion it’s incredible. I felt quite emotional at the meeting."

More than 300 people recently packed into Boreham village hall to discuss the plans, with almost
everyone against the plans.

Then last week, 120 residents crammed the council chamber at the planning meeting which rejected the
plans.

Councillor Neil Gulliver, who sits on the planning committee, said the decision was made on purely planning reasons.

He said: "As a local person it’s lovely to see such spirit among residents.

"But the decision was down to the planning matter.

"The application would have increased the number of students for the local school, which is at capacity
as it is.

"It would have left us in a situation where there would be six-year-olds being bussed around Chelmsford to get to school which just isn’t feasible.

"That’s the problem with these small developments. 

"The funds aren’t put forward with them that could build the schools and infrastructure needed to sustain them."