A CONTROVERSIAL development of up to 140 homes on an important historical site has been recommended for approval.

Gladman Developments Limited has applied for permission to build the new homes on land south of Stonepath Drive, Hatfield Peverel.

Hundreds of objections have been submitted by residents and the Stonepath Meadow Residents Group was set up to fight the plans.

An application for 80 homes was rejected by Braintree Council's Planning Committee in October, however the new, larger proposals have been recommended for approval by Braintree Council's planning officers on the grounds it would bring social and economic benefits to the surrounding area.

A planning report states: "Officers consider that the proposed development would be sustainable and that the planning balance clearly falls in favour of granting planning permission."

The plans will be discussed at a meeting of Braintree Council's planning committee on Tuesday evening.