Approximately 200 Maldon residents attended a meeting at the Town Hall on Wednesday (November 1), to discuss concerns about a proposed 275-home development near the local cemetery. 

'Maldon Woods' is a planned neighbourhood which would border Maldon Cemetery. When revealed in July, the plans were met with objection from residents, who said the town was "overwhelmed" with housing and struggling infrastructure.

At Wednesday's meeting, Sarah Dodsley, part of the 'Say No to Building on Maldon Hall Farm' group, told residents the district was exceeding its Five-Year Land Supply quota at 6.35 years. Therefore, she says the council should not need to approve more land for development. 

The Facebook group currently has more than 1,400 members, including Stafford Chipperfield. He told those present about the loved ones he has buried in the neighbouring cemetery, known for its peaceful surroundings, and how he intends to be buried there when the time comes. 

Stafford told Nub News: "I can't believe that anybody who's local would want to see this happen." 

During the meeting, residents were informed on how to object to the development "successfully" once an application is submitted to Maldon District Council. Sarah confirmed reports that a pre-application meeting was held between developers and councillors last month. 

She maintains residents have "a real chance" of stopping the development.  

"There's nothing different from the rejection in 2015 – in fact, it's become even more important that we protect the land now," she said.

"It's really struck a nerve with the community, so I feel optimistic." 

Once applications are submitted, residents will have three weeks in which to make their objections known. All comments must be made in writing and include the planning application reference number, along with the resident's full name and postal address. Anonymous and confidential comments cannot be accepted. 

A representative for Hopkins Homes told Nub News in July that extra cars on local roads owned by the 275 new households was unlikely to affect peak time traffic. 

Sarah disagreed, saying: "I think that is the viewpoint of someone who doesn't live in the district or has any idea what it's like to drive around here. 

"What matters is that everybody voices their opinion – speak to the council, write a letter, and comment on the planning portal when the plans go in. That's what really going to make a difference." 

Read more

• 'Give a child a Christmas': Burnham pub launches annual appeal to help over 500 children
• Maldon District Council Chair's quiz raises over £360 for David Randall Foundation
• What's On in the Maldon District this weekend: Maldon Fireworks, live music, Christmas crafts, and more