DEVELOPERS behind plans for 1,600 homes have pledged £15 million for a new congestion-busting junction off the A120, the Times can reveal.

An outline application to build on Brook Green was submitted by Wayne Gold of the Acorn Property Group, back in December 2015.

The controversial plans to build the homes, primary school, GP surgery, employment land and open space on nearly 50 hectares of land have so far attracted 300 objection comments, along with a protest March.

Now developers have brought forward proposals for two new slip roads off the A120 at Millennium Way in Braintree.

Mr Gold estimates the project, which is the result of a year of work, will cost in the region of £15million.

The plans have been supported by nearby Freeport and could shave ten minutes off commutes.

Mr Gold told the Times: “We have had objections from people living in Rayne over highways and the traffic problems at peak times.

“This comes as the result of nearly a year of discussions but will mean new junctions on the A120 linking in to where Freeport is.

“At peak times the A120 is rammed because of people trying to get to Freeport and Colchester. This will provide an alternative exit for people getting into Braintree town centre.

“We have met with agents and officers and Freeport for obvious reasons is in complete support.

“We are prepared to fund it 100 per cent.”

Mr Gold said the money for the scheme would be secured via a section 106 agreement.

He added: “Once we get permission it will take probably take the county council and Highways England a year to come up with the final designs.

“We are trying to make people aware of the site and the benefits.

“It will benefit the larger area of Braintree and the people who move around Braintree at peak times.”

Mr Gold said he hoped people would look at the scheme “on balance” and see it as “something very positive” for congestion around the town.

A decision is due in May.