PLANS to build a more than 1,000 home community have been thrown out.

Maldon District Council refused the application to build 1,138 houses on land near to Broad Street Green in Heybridge.

The controversial plans had been recommended for approval by the council planning officers and initially backed by leader, Adrian Fluker.

However, refusal appeared definite after a representative from Essex County Council said its plans to combat 'surface water drainage' on the site had not been completed.

Mr Fluker retracted his recommendation, saying: "Based on what we have just been told, I'm very sorry but I am very uncomfortable with this.

"We've heard this isn't unusual for the flood authority, but it staggers me they are asking us to approve something without all the information."

Heybridge West councillor, Miriam Lewis applauded Mr Fluker for opposing the plans, that could have seen a range of bungalows to four bedroom houses built, with a new school, retirement home and school also created.

She said: "The only thing we could determine this plan on is whether or not we are comfortable and confident that the system works, it has to be done at outline stage, not reserved matters so if we are not comfortable and confident it'll work now, I would say, sorry, we cannot approve."

The plans would have included a residential care for up to 120 beds, a retail neighbourhood, primary school, childcare facility, relief road, open spaces, electric sub-stations, footpaths and cycle links.

The developer, Countryside Properties has confirmed it will be appealing the decision.

A spokesman said: "We are very disappointed by the decision to refuse the planning application for North Heybridge Garden Suburb.

"This goes against the local plan and the professional advice of the local council’s planning officers who recommended the application for approval.

"Our expectation is that we will be submitting an appeal to the planning inspectorate as soon as possible as well as resubmitting the application to the council so that this site can finally be brought forward to provide important new homes, infrastructure and amenities for the community of North Heybridge.”