A MAJOR housing development in Copford will see construction work begin before the end of the year should Colchester Council approve a planning application from developers.

Dandara Homes is looking to develop the 4.25-acre area of land between Hall Road and London Road, which has been allocated for residential development in the Colchester Borough Local Plan.

Despite heavy opposition to the plans, however, Dandara Homes is keen to press ahead with the development after the plot of land was acquired in April.

Dandara Easter’s land and planning director, John Baines, said: “This is an incredibly exciting site in a brilliant location that marks the expansion of Dandara Eastern throughout Essex, we can’t wait to get started on construction later this year once planning permission has been granted.

“We are really looking forward to bringing much-needed quality homes to the area and working with the local residents to build a development that has placemaking and community at its heart.”

Vice-chairman of Copford Parish Council, Steven Braund, said many residents oppose the plans.

He said: "To put additional housing on that plot of land with just Hall Road as the access point is completely inappropriate.

"It’s over-development, and it’s inappropriate in a rural area where people try and get away from everything."