A CAMPAIGN is being launched to try to save fields surrounding Rowhedge from development.

Residents are trying to protect the village boundary, after a 38 acre farm on its outskirts was put forward as a site for housing.

Ward member Mike Lilley explained Battleswick Farm, off Rowhedge Road, marks a boundary between Colchester and Rowhedge.

He claims developing this, or other greenfield or farmland in the area, would be detrimental and lead to Rowhedge being swallowed up.

To combat this, the Rowhedge Residents’ Association is being revived tonight.

At a preliminary meeting, more than 100 residents turned up to express concerns.

The association will also help revive the Neighbourhood Watch group in the area.

Mr Lilley said: “The land was put forward after a call for sites by Colchester Council and it was a bit of a shock.

“We want to protect the farmland and greenfield sites between here and Colchester.

When we held the meeting we put out 40 chairs and had 132 people come.

“People turned up because they don’t want this, so we are starting a campaign to organise our opposition.

“We want to support the farmer and protect the village.”

Mr Lilley said few people objected to the wharf development on a brownfield site with about 300 homes, because it is understood homes are needed.

But he said losing the natural boundary between the village and Colchester would be a mistake.

He said: “We want to remain a village. We don’t want to end up like Stanway.

“We can’t give up the countryside for housing, and this will be the wrong type of housing.

“We want affordable housing for people in the village and sheltered housing for the elderly.”

It is hoped tonight’s meeting will decide the priorities for the association and how residents can go about keeping Rowhedge the waymany residents want it.”