PLANS for a public consultation around specific areas of the Basildon Borough Local Plan 2014-2034 were formally set in motion by councillors at a meeting of the Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Committee last night, Tuesday, 11 January.

Following the submission of the Local Plan for Independent Examination by a Planning Inspector in 2019, additional and updated evidence has been gathered to support a number of suggested modifications to the plan. The proposed public consultation will focus specifically on these modifications and the updated evidence.

The Post Submission Modifications Consultation for the Local Plan is programmed to take place over a six-week period from February to mid-March 2022.

Residents will have the opportunity to share their views with the Planning Inspector by using an online form – or by contacting the council by telephone. Residents will be able to submit comments in writing but, of course, we would recommend the use of the online form.

Residents will also be able to book appointments with the council's Planning Officers to discuss elements of the consultation in further detail.

Cllr Richard Moore, Chairman of the Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Committee, said: "The Basildon Borough Local Plan provides direction for how the borough will grow and evolve over the next two decades so it is important we get it right. This consultation will give residents an opportunity to reflect on particular aspects of the plan and consider the suggested modifications before the plan is finally considered in full by the appointed Planning Inspector.

"We are keen for residents to take this opportunity to put their views to the Planning Inspector. Please take this opportunity to share your views."

Last night's committee meeting follows two similar meetings held in November 2021 and December 2021. The proposed modifications and supporting evidence were split across three meetings to give councillors adequate opportunity to consider all aspects in detail.

Plans for the consultation will now be reported to Full Council on 27 January 2022 for approval ahead of a proposed consultation launch on 7 February 2022.