PLANS for 160 homes residents claim will result in their village being “swallowed up” have moved a step closer to being submitted.

Last year, developer Bloor Homes revealed proposals to build the houses on land at Coach Road, Great Horkesley.

A public consultation was held and villagers were invited to give their views.

Now the developer has submitted a screening opinion application to Colchester Council.

It is a precursor to a formal bid being submitted and asks a council whether extra reports are needed on factors such as the environmental impact.

In the application Bloor Homes said: “Whilst the site is over five hectares in size, not all of the site is proposed for built development, with large areas set aside for public open space and attenuation areas.

“It is not considered the proposed development would have significant urbanising effects on a previously non-urbanised area.”

The application has already received dozens of objections from residents concerned about traffic and nature.

One said: “I do not want this village swallowed up by Colchester.

“I moved to a village location and would like it to stay as a village.

“Coach Road is a nightmare already and is just waiting for an accident to happen.”

Another added: “There must be other location on the borough which would be suitable for development which wouldn’t result in destroying such a lovely area, and adding to the traffic and infrastructure problems.”

One resident said: “Please leave our countryside alone for future generations to enjoy.”

Bloor Homes has said about 30 per cent of the homes will be affordable.

Colchester Council will rule on whether Bloor Homes will have to provide more detail on the impact of the proposal.