BRAINTREE Council has formally adopted the second stage of its Local Plan, setting out a framework for future development in the district.

The second and final section was unanimously adopted at a meeting of Full Council yesterday, Monday, July 25, including additional and minor modifications from the inspectors. 

Section 2 contains local policies and allocations designed to guide development of homes, employment, infrastructure and community facilities in the district between now and 2033.

Section 1 of the Plan, which was adopted in February 2021 and is shared by Tendring and Colchester Councils, sets the key vision, objectives and overall strategic direction for growth.

Braintree Council planning and infrastructure boss Gabrielle Spray said: “We can all agree on wanting more control on what development is delivered in the district and having this Local Plan in place provides us with a strategic direction to enable us to achieve that.

“Not only does it underpin the delivery of new housing to meet the needs of local people, but also ensures there is land for economic growth, supporting infrastructure and protecting land for open spaces and community facilities, and that climate change and sustainability are considered for all developments to safeguard our environment.”