CONTROVERSIAL plans for 108 homes in Maldon will go ahead after an inspector overturned a council’s decision.

Linden Homes was given outline permission for up to 120 homes, including 36 affordable properties on the site of the former Three Suns Nursery on land east of Wycke Hill at appeal in December 2014.

Their reserved matters bid for 108 homes on the land was rejected by Maldon District Council in February last year on the grounds that living conditions in the development would not be satisfactory and the character of the area would be damaged.

However, planning inspector Jonathan Clarke has overturned this decision and allowed the development to proceed, stating the buildings would be suitable.

He said: “Compared to the previous 117 unit scheme, changes have been made to the position and design of the dwellings close to the A414 frontage to reduce the number of rooms affected by noise.

“The proposed private amenity areas serving affected dwellings would be at least partly shielded from noise by the buildings and the previously proposed balconies on some flats have been removed.”

Inspector Clarke concluded in his report: “I have found that the proposal would not cause material harm to the character or appearance of the site and the surrounding area and would, in overall terms, provide acceptable living conditions for its occupiers.

Kath Vale, of the Save Maldon Action Group, was disappointed in the appeal decision, voicing concern that fewer affordable houses would be included now that Linden Homes’ appeal over reducing the amount was approved.

She said: “I’m really not happy about the appeal’s success, particularly the reduction in affordable homes.

“This means that none need to be built if only these 108 homes are built.

“This means we are not getting houses for local people to buy, but expensive homes for commuters.”