EXPERTS supporting a 750- home proposal in Corringham say the development is part of a wider “vision” for east Thurrock.

Planning agent Iceni Projects, along with developer Cogent Land, have submitted plans for the homes, along with a new primary school and a railway station at Williamsons Farm, off Southend Road.

The plans are the third set to be submitted to Thurrock Council on the green belt land since 2008. The previous two plans have seen opponents successfully defend the land.

Now they’re back again, with a petition with more than 2,700 names.

James Bompas, from Iceni, said the development was about reinforcing what’s good about the borough – quality homes and community facilities.

He said: “Like many other areas, there is an acute housing shortage in Thurrock, and the council accepts that some green belt land will have to be released. The question is where?

“The borough’s green belt is predominantlyapositive thing, but it does create certain barriers to investment.”

Mr Bompas said the majority of the borough’s brownfield sites were in the west, and its emerging employments sites, such as DP World London Gateway, were in the east.

He added: “Even if it were possible to accommodate all of Thurrock’s growth requirements around Lakeside, Grays and Purfleet, it would put huge pressure on the borough’s road and rail network through commuting.

“Left unchecked, this could result in an unsustainable pattern of development, and leave East Thurrock with all of the jobs, but none of the benefits.”

Mr Bompas added: “Understandably, and is often the case, those living closest to the site are those most opposed. We have listened and tried to respond positively.”

The council is due to debate the issue in September.