A NEW housing estate, rejected by councillors as inappropriate for Green Belt land, could still be built following an appeal.

Developer Tommy Tomkins has repeatedly put in plans to build 41 homes and a community shop for Netherhouse Farm, in Sewardstone, Road, Sewardstone, but has faced opposition from local residents, and his plans were rejected by the council in July.

Now he has appealed to the Planning Inspectorate which will decide the merits of the proposal at a public meeting with a date yet to be set.

Mr Tomkins has a second proposal at the site to build a golf course and training area.

Diane Bergonzi, of nearby Godwin Close, has objected to the plans ever since they were first proposed last year.

She said: “I've been led to believe it would be a golf course. I was disappointed at the idea of houses.

"At least with a course people come and then go home.When you build three of four-bedroom houses and a shop it's just another housing estate. They've got all these estates along Sewardstone Road, I don't think we need any more.”

Richard West, trustee for Mr Tomkins company Waltham Forest Friendly Society, said: "The land has been designated by the Epping Forest District Council consultation document as a potential site for gypsies and travelers.

"The total land involved is 16.3 acres and for 16 gypsy families i.e. one acre per family. Your readers may form their own conclusion as to whether this is reasonable or excessive.

"Our Appeal is against a refusal by Epping Forest District Council for planning for 41 homes, 80 per cent of which are affordable to be built around a pleasant village green setting with a pond and a community shop.

"We believe that our proposed development will visually enhance, serve and benefit the local area and its inhabitants."

Residents have until September 28 to write comments to the district council at the civic offices in Epping High Street.