Dozens of new homes look set to be built on an area of land which could soon be transformed by housing.

Planning officers have recommended proposals to build 25 new homes off Mount Hill, Halstead, be given the green light.

The number of homes would be split, with 16 being allocated for people seeking supported living, and the remaining nine being handed out as affordable or privately marketed houses.

Access to the site would come to the north east of the White Horse Avenue junction.

Braintree Council received 14 letters objecting to the plans, but consultees such as Halstead Town Council and Essex Highways raised no objections.

In a report which will be put before councillors next week, planning officers have stated the new development would bring a number of benefits to the town.

The report adds: "The application would secure significant social and economic benefits, through the provision of residential development in a sustainable location on the edge of Halstead, most of which would be specialist housing, of which there is a recognised need for in the district.

"As such the proposed development would make a contribution towards the district’s housing land supply, which weighs in favour of the proposal. There would be additional short term employment created whilst the development is being constructed.

"Whilst it is acknowledged that there would be environmental impacts, to the designated heritage assets and some impacts upon the protected trees on the site, these could be mitigated/minimised through the imposition of appropriately worded planning conditions and at the reserved matters stage."

Plans to build a further 71 homes off Mount Hill are also waiting a decision. A public inquiry will be held to decide whether to grant planning permission to Tesni Property, which is the developer behind the scheme.