Copford Queensberry Action Group to protest against plans

Anchor Ltd has submitted blueprints for 72 flats in the living complex and a further 18-bed sheltered housing development on land east of Queensberry Avenue.

The developer says the latter will act as an extension to the existing facilities for the over-55s in Dorothy Curtice Court.

But the Queensberry Action Group has hit out at the plans, challenging the proposed access to the site via Queensberry Avenue.

Dead end - the bottom of Queensberry Avenue, Copford (Image: Google)

It claims the road will not be able to cope with increased traffic and fear the impact heavy construction vehicles will have on residents’ quality of life during works.

As it stands, the only alternative access to the site would be via proposed footpaths from London Road and Dorothy Curtice Court.

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The targeted site, which is vacant grazing land, will see a total of 90 new apartments built if the plans are approved by Colchester Council.

Copford and Easthorpe Parish Council chairman Graham Barney claims this is above the 70 homes allocated in the Local Plan.

Protest - Copford villagers protesting against the plans (Image: Graham Barney)

He said villagers plan to protest at the site on Saturday, February 11 at 1.30pm.

“This isn’t NIMBYism, we are saying there is going to be an impact. People will be impacted in a significant way,” said Mr Barney.

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“Residents don’t object per se to supported and sheltered living. They object to the numbers, access route and parking.”

Mr Barney continued: “The parish council has been consistent in opposing the access route, which will take not only traffic from the assisted living but also, for two years, traffic from HGV and construction vehicles.”

Blueprints - a graphic of the development (Image: Tooley Foster)

A planning statement from Anchor said the plan makes “the most efficient use” of land already identified for development.

“A detailed assessment of the vehicle and pedestrian access options into the site, and the impact of traffic generated by the proposed development, has been prepared,” the statement reads.

“The proposal provides a much desired housing choice for the older people of Copford and the wider Colchester community.

“In turn, through having this aspiration choice existing family homes will be freed up by enabling local people to downsize.”