ALMOST 27,000 extra homes are being planned for the Basildon and Billericay area, as Basildon Council draws up proposals for development over the next 20 years.

Billericay and the surrounding areas could see around 7,725 homes built as Basildon Borough Council plans 26,909 homes across the whole borough. The council is producing its local plan, which includes development such as homes, employment land and other things until 2043.

The plans include a minimum of 10,420 affordable homes, a minimum of 302 new gypsy and traveller pitches, 14 travelling show people yards and 69 hectares of new employment land.

The latest plan has been updated after changes in Government guidance for planning.

The new plan includes various sites for large-scale development across Billericay. South east Billericay could see up to 2,800 homes, land adjacent to Tye Common Road and South of London Road could see 2,000 homes, around 850 homes are planned for land south of Great Burstead, up to 640 new properties are planned north of London Road, Billericay, land west of Great Burstead is earmarked for 550 homes.

The council plans include around 760 homes near Laindon Road, Billericay and Potash Road, Billericay could see around 100 homes. The council is set to hold its latest public consultation into the plans, after two previous consultations being held. The council will discuss the plans at a meeting on November 13.

The documents state: "The vision 2043 sets out that: Basildon borough will be a great place to live and work, delivering ambitious opportunities and sustainable development. Maximise development opportunities to the benefit of our population and economy whilst protecting and enhancing the natural environment. Deliver a wide range of housing to meet the needs of all our residents. Deliver an improved quality of life and wellbeing for all.

"Embrace our new town heritage and our opportunity as a borough. Basildon borough is a vibrant and growing community, and this local plan sets out how we will manage that growth and development through to 2043.

"It represents a significant milestone in shaping the future of our borough, ensuring that development is sustainable, infrastructure is resilient, and opportunities are maximised for all who live and work here."