MAJOR plans to add 150 new homes to a village have been unveiled.

Wallace Land Investment and Management is seeking outline planning permission to build a new estate on land off School Road, Rayne.

The developer plans to demolish the redundant farm building based on the site before building a mix of homes, 60 of which will be allocated as affordable.

A new cycle and pedestrian route would be built alongside the development which would connect Flitch Way with Great Notley Country Park.

Wallace Land also says it will create a new public park which will include children's play equipment.

In its planning statement, the developer insists its plans will not harm the countryside setting of the surrounding area, primarily because the proposed site backs onto the A120.

The statement added: "The proposed residential development would not materially change the key landscape characteristics or elements and features of the wider environment.

"The Site is broadly flat and the boundaries are clearly defined by established tree and hedge planting, which lend the land a more enclosed character and views are more constrained in comparison to the more open landscape to the north of Rayne."

A public consultation hosted by Wallace Land earlier this year saw half of respondents choose transport and infrastructure as a key area the developer must address alongside its plan to build 150 homes.

Despite the developer submitting a traffic assessment with its blueprints, residents have raised concerns about the impact increased traffic will have on Rayne.

A total of seven letters of objection have been sent to the council since the plans were officially made public in late July.

One resident of School Road said: "My concerns are that an increase in traffic possibly 300 more cars will have a detrimental impact on the environment and safety in School Road and New Road especially at the sharp bend where those two road merge.

"Pedestrian access will necessitate crossing School Road to access the pavement a dangerous activity. with the increase in traffic and the bends in the road.

"The small bridge over Flitch Way will be under immense strain both with construction traffic and residents once completed."

Braintree Council will have the final say on the plans.