PLANS to build hundreds of new homes next to a golf course have been unveiled.

Bellway Homes has submitted a screening request for its plans for land to the south west of Rivenhall Oaks Golf Course in Forest Road, Witham.

The request has been sent to Braintree Council to establish if there are any clear environmental concerns about developing the site, which is made up of a mix of agricultural land and woodland.

If the request is approved by planning officers then Bellway will be clear to submit a formal planning application.

The developer is proposing to build up to 250 homes, some of which will be made affordable.

The additions of a children's play area and sport pitches are also part of the plans, and an 'alternative' natural greenspace is being considered.

Bellway says it would look to make a financial contribution towards improving bus services in Witham to address concerns about an increase in traffic brought about by the development.

Its screening request adds: "Previous assessment of the junctions in the local highway network, particularly leading towards Witham railway station and town centre, indicate that they have very limited capacity to accommodate the additional trips that are likely to be generated.

"Therefore, the proposed development will focus on enhancing local bus services and connections, promoting pedestrian and cycle links and achieving a modal shift towards these sustainable forms of transport.

"This is likely to include an appropriate planning contribution towards upgrading and increasing the frequency of the number 90 bus service, and ensuring that it serves the site directly."

The plans come as 385 new homes are due to be built in north east Witham in the coming years.

A resident of Rickstones Road has objected to the screening request amid fears a further 250 new homes will cut the gap between Witham and nearby Rivenhall.

The objector added: "We have seen hundreds, possibly thousands of new homes built in this area, there is no need for any more.

Building here will also join the first part of Rivenhall with Witham, making there no green belt, no differentiation and no distinction between the two areas."

Braintree Council will have the final say.