THE leader of Basildon Council, Cllr Andrew Baggott, has issued a statement following a decision made at full council meeting last night (Thursday, 3 March), to withdraw the Basildon Borough Revised Publication Local Plan becasue they believe the government's directive for the borough do not fit in with local needs.

He said: "Last night councillors made the difficult but necessary decision to withdraw the Basildon Borough Local Plan. We need to reflect on the plan – to look at the data behind it in much more detail to understand what each of our five towns needs in order to grow and prosper in the coming years.

"I realise this decision may cause unease and uncertainty for residents of the borough, but I want to reassure the public that it is essential if we are to deliver a plan that truly meets our borough's needs.

"We are also keen to engage with residents as to their views. We now have an opportunity to reflect their aspirations for the future of the borough and it is vital for us to understand what residents want, rather than what they don't want.

"The Local Plan in its current form is bound by algorithms set by the government. These determine how many homes the borough must build in the next decade. But that algorithm does not reflect or respect the unique qualities of our borough. The greenbelt. The infrastructure. The diversity of our towns and villages.

"We will continue to challenge the government on the national algorithm and ensure we develop the right plan for our borough.

"It is important to understand what last night's decision means and what it doesn't mean. It means that we have an opportunity to review every aspect of the plan in detail to make sure it works. It does not mean that inappropriate development will be supported.

"Last night's decision provides us with an opportunity to set a new standard for Basildon Borough. We have a lot to reflect on in the coming weeks and a great deal of information to unpack and review. I know we are up to the challenge and I know we will come to a conclusion which paves the way for a bright and prosperous future for our borough."