MORE than 500 homes are set to be built in Aveley after members of the planning committee voted in favour of the proposal.

The homes will be built on the former London Fire Brigade Sports and Social Club if they are given the nod by communities secretary Eric Pickles.

Despite strong opposition from a number of members, the majority of the committee felt the community benefits outweighed the fact the homes would be built on green-belt land and would cut off links between Aveley and Purfleet.

Planning Chairman Terry Hipsey spoke passionately about the proposal.

He said: "We're elected to look after residents. There are families living in privately rented accommodation who are paying a lot of money because there are not enough other places to live."

Contributions will also be made to education and health care in the area should the secretary agree with the committee.