VILLAGERS are to have their say on a new development which could see up to 140 homes built in Tiptree.


The plans, which will fund Colchester United’s new £3million training ground in the village, are being finalised and will be put on display next month.


U’s owner Robbie Cowling intends to submit a planning application for the Grange Road site before the end of the year.


Zac Ellwood, of Lawson Planning Partnership, acting on behalf of the club, said the proposals will also include a village green, allotments and public open spaces.


He said: “We want the residents to have as big a say as possible in the development.


“The site is allocated for housing, so there will be housing going there and it’s important people know that and can have their say.”


Mr Ellwood did not rule out building flats on the site if there is a need for them.


It is proposed the village green would be built at the junction of Grange Road and Vine Road, with play spaces and allotments spread around the development.


Diana Webb, chair of Tiptree Parish Council amenities committee, has already called on Colchester Council to make sure all developments in the village include informal open spaces for children and teenagers to play in.


She said: “It is exactly these sorts of spaces we would be looking for.


“They are vital to the future of Tiptree.


“At the moment, we are seeing people wanting to come to live in Tiptree, which is great, but families need to have somewhere for their kids to go.”


Lawson Planning Partnership will put the plans on show at Tiptree Community Centre, in Church Road, on August 13 between 4pm and 8pm.


Villagers have also been told to expect 680 homes to be built in the next 15 years.


• A public inquiry is to be held to decide on whether Tiptree jam makers Wilkin & Sons also will be allowed to build up to 180 homes on part of its 140 homes could be built on land at the junction of Grange Road and Vine Road, Tiptree