Councillors have stood firm against pressure to increase development around Dunmow.

A proposal to build a hotel and fast food restaurant and a housing development were both refused by Uttlesford councillors this week.

Chairman of the development control committee Rodney Copping said: ''We are under severe pressure from everybody to increase development.

"Pressure has come from the new A120, our close vicinity to the airport and the Buchanan report, which forecasts many thousands more houses.

''Every piece of land is viewed as development potential and that means people will come up with some proposals that are non-starters. My colleagues at development control have to argue their point vigorously.''

At Monday's meeting councillors voted unanimously against a proposed hotel and separate drive-through restaurant on the civic amenity site close to the Hoblongs Industrial Estate.

The application follows outline permission granted in 2002 for a 90-bed hotel which borders the newly opened A120.

Dunmow councillor, Keith Clarke said: ''We don't want it, it is not a good idea and it doesn't fit in well. It is gobsmackingly stupid and I am very much against it.''

The recommendation by planning officers prior to the meeting was to approve the scheme subject to conditions.

Published Friday July 23, 2004

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