CAMPAIGNERS are “over the moon” after a planning application for 74 houses in the Braintree district has been turned down on appeal. 

Residents voiced their concerns after plans to build on the Flitch Way, a five-mile, traffic-free part of the countryside, following the former railway line from Braintree to Bishop Stortford was subject to an application. 

Residents had been rallying to protect their beloved green space, including up to 1,660 homes, a community centre, primary school, employment land and public open space in 2017 and 2018, with Braintree Council eventually refusing the application. 

However, the council granted permission after an appeal for 120 homes to be built behind Gilda Terrace near Flitch Way. 

GREEN SPACE: The Flitch Way in Braintree (Image: N/A)GREEN SPACE: The Flitch Way in Braintree (Image: N/A) (Image: N/A)

Another application for 74 homes followed, with campaigners and residents worried again about losing this vital part of the place they call home, where developers sought an appeal after its refusal. 

But the campaigners are celebrating after an appeal over the plans has been dismissed. 

Inspector Jane Bowyer said: “I find that the proposal would conflict with the development plan when it is read as a whole, and material considerations including the framework do not indicate that a decision contrary to the development plan should be reached.” 

Stating in her decision, Mrs Bower wrote the application as firstly being in the wrong place for development, secondly for the impact on character and appearance particularly when seen from the Flitch Way. 

Sandra Reynolds, trustee of the Friends of the Flitch Way and Associated Woodlands group, said: “We are over the moon that the inspector dismissed the appeal after Braintree Council also refused planning permission and we hope this is the last planning application that the developer makes on this land.  The Flitch Way is special and needs continuous protection. 

“The Friends of the Flitch Way and Associated Woodlands have been working with Essex Country Park Rangers for the past 20 years to maintain the Flitch Way and promote its wildlife and history.  

“We are always looking for volunteers to help out at work parties or in our Carriage Museum at Rayne Station.   

“If you would like to get involved in protecting the Flitch Way please email us info@flitchwayfriends.org.uk.”