A planning appeal is underway as residents of Theydon Bois continue to fight to preserve green belt land in their village.

Today, a dozen members of Theydon Bois Action Group (TBAG) are attending a hearing at the Civic Offices in Epping, where the future of Blunts Farm will be decided.

Mark Swan is appealing against a decision by Epping Forest District Council in July last year to refuse him permission to build on the site in Coopersale Lane.

The developer wishes to demolish agricultural and commercial buildings on the site and build four houses.

William Fieldhouse, of the Planning Inspectorate, said that there can be “no dispute” that the development is in on green belt land.

Dr Warren representing TBAG said that this is the main reason the group is opposing the development.

He said: “Having what I see as a modern housing estate is by definition inappropriate development on green belt land.”

The group also believes that if permission is granted, it will lead to further development around the village.

A spokesman for the group said that residents do not wish to “open the flood gates to a raft of planning applications” on the farmland.

Cllr John Philip has told the inspector that the new houses would take away an element of the natural surroundings.

He said: “The impact of light in the dark arena would be a significant difference.

“One of the attractions to the area is the lack of manmade light.”

Should Mr Swan be granted permission it is believed that around £100k will be given to the council for the provision of affordable housing elsewhere in the area.

Planning Officer Graham Courtney is representing EFDC.

The hearing continues.