Controversial plans for the creation of 16 new homes have been approved despite a number of objections.

At a planning meeting of Epping Forest District Council on Wednesday night councillors approved the Waltham Forest Friendly Society's plan for the conversion of a large farm barn and the demolition of two others to make way for new properties in Sewardstone Road, Waltham Abbey.

The plans were approved following the withdrawal of a more ambitious proposal for 21 homes after it had been recommended for refusal by council officers.

Half the properties from the approved plan will be designated as so-called “affordable” housing, and a new car park, play area, wildflower meadow and roadway will also be constructed under the plans.

Thirteen objections were registered against the plans, from bodies including the City of London Corporation and Waltham Abbey Town Council.

The City of London Corporation objected to the plans because of the site’s location within the green belt, saying it was an unsustainable location for the number of properties.

Other issues raised included increased congestion in Sewardstone Road, risk of flooding in the area and the potential for increased antisocial behaviour.