Robert Halfon has officially complained about proposals for a construction waste processing plant, joining widespread opposition to the plans.

The MP and deputy chair of the Conservatives wrote a letter to Essex County Council on Friday (July 24), raising concerns passed on by his constituents living near the proposed site near the M11 in Hastingwood.

The politician joins Epping Forest District Council, North Weald Parish Council and many members of the public in opposition to the proposal, which is being considered alongside a number of others.

Opponents fear the depot could pollute green belt land and homes, increase existing traffic problems and threaten nearby St Clare Hospice.

Mr Halfon wrote: “I have received a number of complaints from residents about planned developments on site W19 (Hastingwood – London Road).

“Constituents have written to me about the increased strain that this could have on local highways which is already under pressure, particularly the M11 junction.

“There have also been concerns raised about the proposal for the site to be extended into previously undeveloped land, and the impact that the recycling plant could have on the Mark Bushes complex which is located 500 meters off the site.

“I believe that as the site falls within the green belt, it is an unsuitable place to begin development.

“I have submitted an official complaint to Essex County Council on the 24th of July articulating these concerns.”

The parish council has claimed the depot could see “a minimum of eight large lorries entering and exiting the site every hour”, and there are fears that it could cause heavy traffic through Epping.

An official public consultation has been roundly criticised for failing to reach enough people.

On Saturday, campaigners including Paul Sozzi visited Epping to raise awareness.

He said: “How can ECC highways say access is acceptable when the same department say junction seven is over capacity and a new junction is required?”

To comment on the plans, visit http://essexcc-consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal/replacement_waste_local_plan/rwlp_revised_preferred_approach?pointId=1433848409614 before 5pm on Thursday.