BRAINTREE Council will launch a round of public consultations at the beginning of next year as it undertakes a refresh of its Local Plan.

The Braintree District Local Plan is part of the Braintree District Development Plan, which provides a vision and new planning framework for how the district will develop and grow up to 2033.

It identifies the most sustainable locations to deliver local housing needs and supporting infrastructure, such as employment, community facilities, retail, leisure and transport.

The local environment and tackling climate change is also central to the plan.

Braintree Council is keen to “bring residents on the journey” of its decision making and give the public opportunities to have their say.

Future - Braintree Council will launch a round of public consultations in the new year Future - Braintree Council will launch a round of public consultations in the new year (Image: Newsquest) Councillor Gabrielle Spray, Cabinet Member for Planning at Braintree District Council, said: “It’s important we bring residents on the journey with us to help shape the planning process, and we’re grateful to everyone who has shared feedback and ideas with us so far.

“In the New Year there will be a further round of public engagement, which we’re not required to do, but maximises opportunities for residents to have their say as we develop the Local Plan.

“As the district continues to develop, the Local Plan will be a crucial way of making better provision for our communities through genuinely affordable homes, places that are easily accessible, ensuring jobs for residents and delivering necessary infrastructure to meet the needs for more growth, local facilities and services.

“The document affects every resident so it’s really important for as many people as possible to be engaged and get involved.

“I’d encourage people to keep an eye out on the council’s channels for the latest information and updates when we launch the consultation in the New Year.”