Uttlesford's draft Local Plan has been given the green light to go through to the final round of public consultation.

The plan and supporting documents have been informed by responses to the previous consultation, and were approved by the council at a meeting last night (Tuesday, July 30).

The consultation will open on Thursday, August 8 and close on Thursday, October 3.

Everyone who responds is required to focus their comments on the plan's legal compliance and 'soundness', which relates to whether it meets the requirements set out in national policy, guidance and legislation. Information will be included in the consultation to explain this.

All responses will be submitted to the secretary of state later this year for examination, along with the plan and supporting documents.

Uttlesford's new Local Plan will bring all major planning policy for the district into a single document, meeting the requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework.

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

"This is the final opportunity for people to add their comments before the plan is sent to the government for examination. I would encourage everyone to have their say in this consultation."

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Residents can read the draft plan and provide feedback at www.uttlesford.gov.uk/new-local-plan.

Responses can also be submitted by email or post using a form which is available at the district council's London Road office and in Uttlesford libraries.

Responses should be sent by email to: localplan@uttlesford.gov.uk or by post to: Local Plan Team, Uttlesford District Council, London Road, Saffron Walden CB11 4ER.

Consultation events will be held from 5pm to 8pm at Ugley Village Hall on Monday, September 2, Foakes Hall, Dunmow on Wednesday, September 4, Saffron Walden Town Hall on Monday, September 9 and Priors Green Community Hall in Takeley on Tuesday, September 10.

Parish councils will be provided with copies and a briefing to be able to assist members of the public.