Ambitious plans to give Walton a shot in the arm have been slammed.

Farmer David Eagle is hoping to create a visitor centre and nature reserve at the Naze.

But objectors say inadequate roads could become blocked by the thousands of visitors expected and they are concerned the environment could be eroded.

Morley Thomas, spokesman for Action Against Naze Development, said: "It is selling the public inheritance for a mess of pottage."

Mr Eagle has plans for a £1.5 million visitor centre using a large 19th century barn complex on his farm. The Living Naze project would include an educational centre and restaurant at Walton Hall.

He has also offered to turn over 800 acres of his farmland to provide an east coast sanctuary for wildlife and fauna.

Plans for the Living Naze will be discussed by Tendring councillors on October 26.

Published Monday, October 4, 2004

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette