AN MP has joined residents in opposing a housing development which could devastate the landscape and an important habitat site.

Stonepath Meadow, located on land to the south of Stone Path Drive, Hatfield Peverel, is home to numerous species and is said to form an important part of the landscape of the village.

Gladman Developments has applied for planning permission to build up to 140 homes on the site, despite having an application for 80 homes rejected by Braintree Council’s planning committee in October.

The latest application has been recommended for approval by planning officers, with a decision set to be issued at a meeting of the planning committee on Tuesday.

Priti Patel, MP for Witham, has backed resident’s campaign to save the historic site and met with residents on Saturday to discuss their concerns.

Ms Patel said: “I stand side-by-side with local residents opposing this terrible planning application.

“It is appalling that the developer and the officers of Braintree District Council want to ignore the views of local residents and destroy this important environmental site.

“Stonepath Meadow is much loved and enjoyed by the local community.

“The development proposed would be devastating for the village. After all the effort which has been put in to protecting this site and proposing alternative development sites through the draft Neighbourhood Plan it would be heart-breaking to see this development approved.

“The previous planning application for 80 homes was rejected last year and I urge the Planning Committee to reject his new application for 140.”

A spokesman for the Stonepath Meadow Residents Group urged the public to attend the meeting on Tuesday and support the campaign.