RESIDENTS are preparing to kick-up a fuss over a new 21 home development right in their front yard.

Agent Philip Cobbold Planning Ltd has applied on behalf of three private developers to build 21 homes on land south of Mill Road, in Ridgewell.

The developer has applied to Braintree Council for outline planning permission for the homes, eight of which will be affordable, and the associated public open space.

Terry Martin, of Mill Road, Ridgewell, said the new houses would destroy the “peace and tranquillity” of the area.

He said: “My property has its living area looking out across the proposed development area.

“I have uninterrupted views of open fields stretching more than five miles to Hedingham Castle and sweeping round to Stambourne - a beautiful panorama.

“These views will be obliterated by the development. My neighbours enjoy a similar vista.

“I do not think that this, or any other similar application should be considered either now or in the foreseeable future at this site.”

Mr Martin also said that the development was destroying greenbelt land and would be just 50 metres away from a historic monument dating from between 1069 AD and 1539 AD at the nearby Moat Farm.

The owners of Moat Farm are said to be strongly against the development.

Mr Martin pointed to a lack of facilities or transport options in the village as another reason why the location was not sustainable.

In a planning statement, the developer said the homes will be “bespoke designs” suited to the character of the area.

The statement reads: “The proposed development will make a significant contribution to redressing the current shortfall of family homes in the district, it will provide economic, social and environmental benefits and can take place without any significant adverse impacts on any interest of acknowledged importance.”

A presentation was given to residents and the parish council in May, before an outline application, with a reduced number of homes was submitted.