PLANS for 91 homes could be given the go-ahead by Witham councillors next week.

Redrow Homes applied to Braintree Council to build the homes at Lodge Farm in Hatfield Road.

At a Witham Town Council planning meeting on November 7, it will be decided whether the site, appearance and landscaping should be approved.

Agent Strutt and Parker is promoting the plans, which will be carried out in phases.

Phase 1A talks of 91 homes, open space and car parking, with an overall plan to build up to 750 homes, a primary school and an enterprise centre.

Planning consent for the site was granted permission in May for an outline application.

The plans include two-bedroom apartments and homes with three, four and five bedrooms.

In a design statement for Redrow, it said: "The type of housing is likely to attract young families, professionals and people wishing to up size as well as those who are wishing to down size. "Opening up the choice of housing will encourage different groups of people who will help ensure a sustainable community is established in Lodge Farm.

"The proposed public open spaces provide part of a range of amenity space for the overall Lodge Farm development.

"In terms of planning, sustainability, design and accessibility, the proposals are considered to comply with all guidance to create a high quality, attractive and sustainable environment."

Kate Booker, who lives in King Edward Way, said other facilities such as a doctors' surgery would be vital.

She said: "I suppose another primary school will be needed for all the houses, but what is needed more are doctors' facilities and walk-in centres for the area.

"I have no objections to housing as long as the right support system is in place.

"Things like policing are a huge problem at the moment and a doctors' surgery is vital."