A developer bringing nearly 200 homes to Borough Green has come under fire for allowing 13 properties to be occupied - before contamination issues were resolved.

Eight houses and five flats on the former Isles Quarry site were taken occupied despite councillors claiming that planning conditions had not been met.

It isn't the first time the land on the former quarry by Dark Hill has been questioned over contamination issues. In July developer Crest Nicholson Eastern was forced to down tools after being accused of breaking planning laws, but was later given permission to continue.

More recently, concerns were raised last month over material used to cover gardens in the Hazelbourne development.

Councillor Mike Taylor said the matter was lodged as an urgent item at a council planning meeting last week though subsequent tests have indicated the soil is safe.

After the meeting Mr Taylor said: "Officers mentioned that topsoil imported for the new gardens had tested as contaminated, and required them to expedite.

Members voted unanimously that officers would write in the 'strongest possible terms' requesting Crest to cease occupations immediately.

Mr Taylor added: “There was deep concern expressed about the possible impact on tenants who will go from the euphoria of finally getting a house, to fear of men in hazardous material suits turning up."

Deputy leader Martin Coffin said the planning committee supported the motion instructing officers to take every appropriate action to prevent further occupation on site until these matters are resolved.

He added: "As a matter of urgency, Crest Nicholson were required to provide the council with the outstanding information to enable a full assessment to be made in relation to land contamination on this first phase of the development. This verification information has now been received."

"All elements of the site are subject to rigorous on-going testing across the lifetime of development, with full validation coming at the end of the development" - Peter Diffley...

In a statement, the chief planning officer said following forensic analysis, materials have been found to be within nationally established levels meaning gardens are safe, but are yet to be put for final evaluation.

Peter Diffley, managing director of Crest Nicholson Eastern, said staff are continuing to work with a team of expert consultants on the agreed programme of testing and remediation works.

He added: "All elements of the site are subject to rigorous on-going testing across the lifetime of development, with full validation coming at the end of the development. We are in the process of clarifying the points raised with the Council and continue to keep them appraised on activity."

A council spokesperson said: "The council always puts the safety of present and future residents first. That was reflected in the planning permission granted for the Isles Quarry housing development when the Council imposed strict conditions relating to land contamination and remediation in order to protect the safety of the environment.