OPPOSITION to thousands of homes as well as a traveller ‘invasion’ is fuelling the growth of a recently-formed residents association.

The Weeley Residents Association is leading the fight against the Tendring Local Plan and reports it is “absolutely astounded” at the opposition to the planned homes in and around the village.

On Saturday, it launched the first of regular advice sessions in from of the village post office to help villagers express their opposition to the plan. Their stall helped the association more than double membership numbers to more than 100.

Secretary Colin Crane said people oppose the planned housing but aren’t sure how to express this to the council. They can’t just say they oppose the homes, they must give good reasons as to why.

“We haven’t had one person who likes the idea. People do not know the enormity of it. It’s not just the hundreds proposed in the village but another 1,500 proposed for the area,” he said.

This would, Colin explained, turn Weeley from a village to a small town.

In addition to campaigning on the Local Plan, which saw members meet Douglas Carswell on August 5 on the issue, a stand-off with travellers last, which received national publicity, has also boosted its growth.

Formed only earlier this year, Colin said the residents association has “really taken off.”

The aim was to bring villagers together, with a range of community events and activities.

For Colin, a retired council planner and former Bedford councillor, who has lived in Weeley for several years, it would also help him settle in the village.

The association, which also includes Anita Bailey as Chairman and Angela Barnes as deputy, is trying to set up a Neighbourhood Watch. It is organising a Weeley in Bloom for 2017, plus there is bingo, Christmas teas. Music lessons and computer help for the elderly is also planned.

“Anything people want to do as a community, we are setting up,” Colin added.

People wanting to join the association can contact Colin on 01255-830778 or check its website http://www.essexinfo.net/weeley-residents-association/.