Plans to build 200 new homes in Halesworth have been approved for the second time despite objections from the town.

In April last year, Christchurch Land and Estates Ltd’s plans for 200 new homes in land off Chediston Street were approved by Waveney District Council’s Planning Committee.

But a ruling from the European Court of Justice forced the proposal to return to committee.

Planning permission was never issued as shortly after the decision the European Court of Justice published its ruling of People Over Wind and Sweetman v Coilette Teoranta.

It ruled the impact of European protected habitats could not be considered at a screening stage but must go through a Habitat Regulations Assessment.

An assessment was undertaken and outline plans were once again approved when the committee considered the application afresh last week.

The plans outline the building of up to 200 homes on the site, 70 of which will be affordable housing.

A new roundabout will also be built at the junction of Chediston Street and Roman Way, and a 30mph speed limit will be extended throughout Chediston Street.

In its Design and Access Statement, Christchurch Land said the development will incorporate sustainable drainage systems, open space will provide links to the wider countryside and the creation of woodland, hedgerows and ponds would be in keeping with the character of the landscape.

However, the approval will not be warmly received by Halesworth Town Council (HTC) the nearby residents who recommended refusal.

HTC pointed out a host of potential problems including; increased traffic, sewage and utilities issues and increased risk of flooding

It added: “The planning statement has not taken into consideration that very few of the future residents will find employment in Halesworth and so at least 100 cars will be leaving the site during the morning peak exodus.”

The council also raised concerns about the “cumulative impact on the infrastructure, particularly health and education which are already overloaded”.

Following a neighbour consultation 32 objections were received on issues such as; increased traffic and noise pollution, fears Chediston Street will become a rat run, lack of cycling provision and intrusion into nearby properties due to the site’s high ground.