BRAINTREE Council has approved its new annual plan, setting out actions and performance measures for 2023/24.

The council says the measures aim to “strengthen and support local communities, grow the local economy and protect and enhance the environment”.

The annual plan, which was approved at a meeting of Braintree Council’s cabinet on Monday, March 13, will support the delivery of the council’s 2020-2024 corporate strategy.

It sets out a variety of measures.

A total of £1million of the council’s New Homes Bonus has been invested to support and strengthen the safety net for residents who need it most in the district through the continuing cost of living crisis.

In a bid to boost the recovery and regeneration of town centres, improvement works to Halstead and Witham town centres will take place to increase their attractiveness and accessibility.

Investment has also been made into leisure centre improvements, including refurbishing the wet and dry changing facilities at Halstead Leisure Centre and replacing the studio and sports hall floors at Braintree Leisure Centre.

Continuing the council’s drive to become a carbon neutral district, it will work with partners to improve the energy efficiency of homes and buildings and protecting and improving the natural environment.

Prioritising sustainable travel and transport will be harnessed by introducing more walking and cycling networks across the district.

Refurbishment of the wildlife garden in Halstead Public Gardens will also take place to enhance biodiversity in the area.

To support the district’s economic growth and improve infrastructure, the council will continue to help deliver a new multi-purpose community centre in Witham as well as a new purpose-built medical centre in Sible Hedingham.

The council will also continue to support people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless towards independent living through supported housing and temporary accommodation.

Council leader Graham Butland said: “The future for the Braintree district looks very exciting as we reach the final year of our corporate strategy.

"This annual plan aims to provide residents with support when they need it, invest in services, encourage and assist businesses to thrive, and work to protect and enhance the beautiful district we live in – all to make the Braintree district the best that it can be.”

The full plan can be read online at braintree.gov.uk/annualplan202324.