PLANS for 200 homes in Burnham have been thrown out by the council after various concerns were raised.

Maldon District Council has refused planning permission for the development near Romans Farm, Burnham-on-Crouch. Welbeck Strategic Land V Limited was proposing the development.

The council raised concerns about the location and impact of the development as well as the expected increase in traffic and also about the lack of financial contributions proposed for services.

The plans state the development is "designed to respond sensitively and distinctively to the surrounding landscape and townscape setting."

The council's decision notice states the development "would cause significant harm to the character and appearance of the area, which is not outweighed by the benefits of the proposal". It also says the proposal "would be likely to result in unacceptable impacts on highway safety and would fail to give priority to pedestrian, cyclist and vulnerable road users."

The plans include around five hectares of landscaped open space, children's play areas, "enhancements" to existing footpaths, alongside new walking routes and "opportunities" for a new community orchard.

The council officer's report states council has received 458 objections from residents to the application, with a range of concerns raised.

The plans also state the development would deliver up to 200 "high-quality" new homes, including affordable homes. The plans add: The project will provide much needed new homes and generate essential new investment into the local economy."