COUNCILLORS are set to ignore advice and again reject plans for 269 new homes - despite being warned they could face a costly legal challenge.

Basildon’s planning committee had previously rejected the plans for a mini-village on Dunton Road, but the councillors have been asked to vote again.

Planning officers have stated the plans should be approved and highlighted the risk of the developer - Bloor Homes - lodging an appeal with the planning inspectorate.

The plan was initially rejected due to air quality, noise, absence of Section 106 agreement and unsuitable location concerns.

However, councillors have been recommended to approve them if an S106 agreement can be provided.

Councillor Jeff Henry said: “I see no substantial reason of why the plans for new dwellings are going to be accepted.

“Given the traffic issues in the area, the proposal will see a change in the nature of the area.

“The new homes, which would increase the population by around 400 residents, will massively impact the traffic, educational institutions and health system.

“Residents and councillors are strongly against the idea, therefore I see no reason to overturn the decision.”

As part of the report ahead of Wednesday’s meeting, planning officers have stressed that councillor “should be mindful of the risk of costs associated with a legal challenge if the application is refused and appealed”.

Basildon Council has faced a series of major planning appeals in recent years.

Between the period March 2018 to March 2020, Basildon Council received six major appeals. The council was successful in five out of six of those appeals.

Ahead of Wednesday’s meeting, the report states: “ It is recommended that the committee resolves that the planning application be granted planning permission subject to no call-in powers being exercised by the Secretary of State, the completion of a S106 agreement to secure 40 per cent affordable housing on site, together with financial contributions towards education provision, healthcare improvements, upgrades of the Wash Road with Noak Hill Road and Dunton Road junctions, sustainable transport, open space, indoor and outdoor sports, culture and play enhancements, employment and skills, monitoring fees, payment of the Local Planning Authority’s professional and legal fees associated with the completion of the S106 legal agreement.”