CAMPAIGNERS and councillors have hit out at plans for 1,000 new homes at a beauty spot. The Defence Infrastructure Organisation’s plans for the new estate at Middlewick Ranges were discussed during an examination of Colchester Council’s Local Plan. Inspector Jameson Bridgwater was addressed on the issues relating to the controversial development by campaigners and councillors opposed to the plans. The MoD will sell The Wick for development after 2022 when firing operations move to Fingringhoe whilst Colchester Council has included the site in its Local Plan. Sir Bob Russell, Colchester High Steward, said sadly “the horse had bolted” over homes being built at The Wick.