CAMPAIGNING residents were dealt a crushing blow when Basildon councillors approved plans to build homes on a cherished playing field.

Planning bosses debated the controversial proposals to allow 25 homes on a playing field off Felmores, Pitsea, at a packed Basildon Council development control meeting last night.

After two hours of debate, during which opposition and even Tory councillors spoke out against the scheme, five members voted to pass the application, while two opposed it.

The move is a kick in the teeth for more than 1,000 residents who signed a petition and those who joined an online Facebook group opposing the plans.

Phil Rackley, Labour planning councillor, who voted against the application, said: “This has set a precedent. No area of green land in Basildon will be safe. We are here to support the residents and we should have listened to them.”

Pitsea North-West Tory councillor Ron Livesey said after the meeting: “I am very disappointed. There are alternative sites, but they have not been looked at. I would urge residents to seek a judicial review.”

One of the campaigners, Dorothy Hole, of Quilters Close, Pitsea, said: “They’ve picked the piece of land everyone seems to go to. It’s out of order. I’m sure the council could have found other land.”

Last night’s decision does not bode well for campaigners fighting to save two other pieces of land also earmarked for development.

These are playing fields in Kent View Road, Vange, and a community centre off Pound Lane, Laindon, which will soon come before planning bosses.

The land is under threat because the Tory administration says it needs to raise cash for the £38million Sporting Village, being built in Gloucester Park.

Last night’s meeting was held in the Towngate Theatre, in St Martin’s Square.