Uttlesford's new draft Local Plan has been presented to councillors ahead of a consultation at the end of October.

The draft plan was published on Tuesday, September 26, and includes recommendations for development sites which have been identified following an extensive period of gathering and testing.

Over the next 20 years, Uttlesford needs to prepare for nearly 14,000 new homes - a figure imposed by the government - although around 8,000 of those have already been built or have planning permission.

Dunmow Broadcast: Cllr John EvansCllr John Evans (Image: Simon Hawkins)

The draft plan currently proposes allocations for 6,076 additional homes up until 2041, with development focused on where it is most needed.

Allocations for education, healthcare, employment, infrastructure for improved transport links, and community use are also included - while maximising the opportunities for active travel and protecting the environment.

Cllr John Evans, portfolio holder for planning, said: "We are getting closer to taking back control and being able to stem the tide of speculative development – each step taken towards adopting a new local plan is a step in the right direction for the district.

"This is not the final version of the plan but is a set of recommendations that look to realise the long-term aspirations for Uttlesford.

"There are some tough decisions that need to be made, but getting the public's constructive feedback upon this draft will be a key part of the process as we continue to refine and shape the plan.

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"Consultation is scheduled to start next month and I would encourage as many people as possible to have their say on the proposals and let us know their views.

"There will also be a series of local community engagement events which will also give the public an opportunity to ask questions."

The new draft plan will be discussed by the cross-party Local Plan Leadership Group on Wednesday, October 4, who will make recommendations for the Cabinet to discuss later in the month.

A full council meeting will then be held to decide whether or not to publish the draft Local Plan for public consultation.

If agreed, a six-week public consultation will start from the end of October.