A new housing development in Stanford-le-Hope will be recommended for refusal tonight by Thurrock planning chiefs.

Hills Residential and Mersea Homes, have put forward ambitious plans to build 250 homes on Stanhope Industrial Park, Wharf Road, as well as promising cash to local schools, affordable housing and a community benefit donation.

But planning officers will recommend the industrial park is kept as an area of trade, not a residential estate.

Councillors will decide whether to follow the recommendations at tonight's planning committee.

Published Tuesday, November 22, 2005