A PROPOSAL to build 130 new homes on an edge-of-town garden centre has caused a stir among nearby residents who claim the area's infrastructure would struggle to cope with the extra strain.
Ingatestone Garden Centre has stood in Roman Road, near Heybridge, for more than 75 years.
But in a recent council report the land has been cited as a potential location for a new development of homes.
The centre's location means any changes could have an effect on neighbouring villages Mountnessing and Ingatestone.
Chairman of Mountnessing Parish Council, Karl Afteni, confirmed the centre's current owner James Harding has approached the parish council to discuss the possible developments.
"The existing garden centre area isn't that big but they may own some green belt land adjacent to it," he explained.
"There's been no application and nothing official as yet but I think there could be good things and bad things to it.
"I think we have to accept that there's going to be changes but there's a need for houses and we've got to look at it with a level head. I think our parish council can be open-minded and we'll look at how it impacts what's already there."
The garden centre was fully purchased by Mr Harding around three years ago but it is understood the owner would consider redeveloping the popular attraction in the future.
David Abrey, vice-chairman of Ingatestone and Fryerning Parish Council, acknowledged that residents had concerns about what impact any development might have on the area but told the Gazette any plans were still in their infancy.
"I think the big worry lots of people have about it is the facilities to be able to handle the increased demand for services," he said.
"But character-wise I don't think it would have much of an effect on Ingatestone as it's outside the conservation area."
