A councillor has criticised campaigners in their fight to prevent a 32 house development from being built on green belt land.

Approval for the development in Roding Lane North, Woodford Bridge, was approved last week by Redbridge Council's regulatory committee.

Lead campaigner Richard White, 62, previously organised a petition to save the four historic buildings on the land, which used to be part of Claybury Farm, from demolition.

Campaigners also fear the development will increase traffic congestion and put pressure on local amenities.

But Cllr Paul Canal of Bridge ward has criticised the claim that too many homes will be squeezed into the site.

He said: "The campaign to preserve Claybury Farm has started 50 years too late. They haven’t grown a carrot or fed a sheep there for decades.

"The current buildings on the farm are decrepit light industrial buildings that have been allowed to fall into disrepair. Quite frankly the site is a disgrace and a local eyesore.

"I called for the site visit two weeks ago having read of residents’ concerns previously. I have studied the plans with fellow councillors and officers and walked the site.

"Quite frankly, if every proposed site was of this standard we would be building a better borough and much needed homes fit for families.

"After the war homes were built for heros. In 2013 homes are built for families.

"I have no idea what planet these guys are on."

The homes will be a mixture one bed, two bed, three bed and four bed houses and flats.