A widely criticised public consultation over a proposed construction waste processing plant ends today (July 30).

Essex County Council has been carrying out the consultation for six weeks about the potential for a waste recycling depot in Hastingwood, next to junction seven for the M11.

Opponents to the proposal, which is being considered against several others, claim it could pollute green belt land and homes, increase existing traffic problems and threaten nearby St Clare Hospice.

The online consultation closes at 5pm today.

The plans have been criticised by MP Robert Halfon, people living nearby and North Weald Parish Council, which claimed there could be “a minimum of eight large lorries entering and exiting the site every hour”.

In an official complaint to the county council last week, Mr Halfon, who is deputy chair of the Conservative party, wrote: “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… I believe that as the site falls within the green belt, it is an unsuitable place to begin development.

The county council has also faced heavy criticism over the consultation itself, including from Epping Forest District Council leader Chris Whitbread, who said: “I am most displeased with the county council, particularly with this consultation which has been foisted upon us without proper time to actually consult – which is what it is meant to be.”

The consultation has also been criticised for failing to reach enough people, with many unaware of the plans until recently.

To make a comment, visit the council website before 5pm.