Controversial plans to build flats on a Colchester estate have been given the green light - despite strong opposition from local residents.

At last night's meeting of Colchester Council's planning committee, councillors approved plans to build 20 flats and an office or shop unit behind the Willows shopping parade in Mersea Road.

The plans had been previously deferred by members who thought the scheme would overdevelop the area.

But the new amended proposal, with 20 flats instead of 21 and buildings limited to two storeys, was thought impossible to refuse.

Speaking on behalf of the Willows residents, who have signed petitions and gone all out to fight the plans, was Terry Smith, who lives opposite the site.

He said: "The reduction of just one unit and the lowering of the roof line have done nothing to lesson the strength of opposition to this proposal by an overwhelming majority of the residents of the Willows estate."

But a spokesperson for applicants, the Shaftesbury Housing Group, said it would provide "vital affordable housing".

Published Friday, May 30, 2003

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