CAMPAIGNERS have hit back at criticism they are depriving young people of the chance to get on the housing ladder.

The Hands Off Chapel Hill and Sloe Hill group has been fighting proposals for new housing in Halstead.

But critics say new homes are needed in the area for young people growing up in Halstead to move into.

One member of the public said on Facebook: “Congratulations on denying your kids a local home should they wish to stay there.

“Three children in the above picture proudly posing with ‘No’ banners.

“They obviously hate the place enough to not want to live there.”

But the campaigners insist they are not opposed to all new developments.

Group founder Peter Caulfield said they are only opposed to applications where the development adversely affects areas of natural beauty or the biodiversity of a site.

Mr Caulfield said: “The criticism is ridiculous.

“Including the new Oak Road development under construction, there are applications in the pipeline for over 1,000 new homes in the town. With rumours of another 8,500 being considered between Halstead and Earls Colne, there should be plenty of housing.

“It’s just a shame there aren’t enough schools for those children to attend.

“The two cases in which we have got involved are about protecting very particular areas, specifically for future generations to enjoy.

“The Sloe Hill site is also outside the town’s development boundary and it is vital that urban sprawl is prevented from encroaching into the countryside.

“It’s all about the suitability of the sites, not about preventing development.”

The group objects to the Sloe Hill development for a number of reasons, including the protection of wildlife and the effects of light pollution.

Objectors say the land is home to foxes, badgers, voles, sloe worms, deer, muntjac, red legged partridges, owls and sparrowhawks.

They fear the development would destroy the wildlife’s natural habitat.