A DEVELOPER has been ordered to address issues with the construction of 50 homes or face court. 

Colchester Council has served Dandara with an enforcement notice after it breached planning conditions at its site in Hall Road, Copford. 

It comes after nearby residents documented instances of near misses on the 3.5m wide road due to the 3m size of lorries and vehicles.

Hall Road resident Tracie Jackson said they were not against the development of the houses but are instead against deaths or injuries to the users of the road which is popular with dog walkers.

Gazette: Popular - Hall Road is a popular route for dog-walkers, walkers, and families Popular - Hall Road is a popular route for dog-walkers, walkers, and families (Image: Newsquest)

Campaigner Eric Squires said the notice showed Dandara had "admitted" they were at fault.

He said: "All extra measures, all possible risks, and possible issues should have been identified and covered." 

A spokesman for Colchester Council said: “Colchester Council, as the Local Planning Authority (LPA), has served a Breach of Condition Notice (BCN) on the developer for planning application 231640.

“This action follows identified breaches of conditions that deal with construction management.

"The BCN requires immediate compliance with these conditions. The developer has 28 days from receipt to rectify the breaches.”

Andrea Luxford Vaughan, the council's planning boss, said:  “We have clear procedures in place to monitor construction activity and ensure developments are built according to the agreed plans and minimise disruption to local residents. 

“This includes clear procedures for developers to follow and robust enforcement mechanisms when necessary.

"The Breach of Condition Notice issued, requires the developer to address specific concerns within 28 days. Failure to comply will prompt further action, which could include prosecution in the magistrates' court.”

A spokesman from Dandara said: "To ensure compliance with the BCN we are working with our contractor to get everything in place as soon as possible. Once installed, these extra measures will be checked weekly by Dandara's HS&E department as well as Dandara senior management.

"We've also invited the parish councillor and local councillor to meet on site to address the issues raised and to work together for the residents of Hall Road."