A controversial application to build homes between a school and a village hall have been pulled by the applicants.

Bristol Estates were looking for outline planning permission to erect up to 18 dwellings, including up to seven affordable units on land south of The Street, Shotley.

Marquess of Bristol at Shotley village hall (Picture: Nub News)

No reason has yet been given as to why the Marquess of Bristol's representatives withdrew the application, who will now no longer be heard by Babergh's planning committee.

Shotley villagers had made it clear they were against the development, which Bristol Estates admitted, would be the first phase off a potential 50 new homes on land behind the site close to Rose Farm.

Safety concerns, especially the use of an access on the same entrance and path used by Shotley primary and Kidzone children,, a lack of benefits to the village, questions over housing needs, and an increase in traffic, were among concerns aired by villagers.

Derek Davis, Babergh councillor for Ganges ward, which covers Shotley and Erwarton, had expressed concerns over the development.

He said: "Usually I try and find balance between the needs and desires of the residents, and the benefits of any planning scheme but I could see no positives for the people of Shpt;ey with this one, so I'm glad and not hugely surprised it has been withdrawn.

"It will be interesting to hear the reasons and Bristol Estates do next. I doubt it is the end altogether, although that would be wonderful."