We are in the process of reviewing our Local Plan, a framework of planning policies acting as a blueprint to guide future development in line with government requirements.

This includes housing needs, employment opportunities and infrastructure requirements to make sure these are in the best locations, as well as protecting open spaces and land for nature.

Our current adopted Local Plan is designed to run until 2033 but has to be reviewed at least every five years to see if it needs updating. The review of Braintree’s Local Plan will extend its timeframe from 2033 to 2041.

Call for Sites launched 

A “Call for Sites” is the first step of our review of the Local Plan, providing an opportunity for landowners, developers, parish councils and the public to propose sites that could be considered suitable for development.

This includes:

• new buildings
• homes
• employment, leisure, open space, community and education facilities
• land they would like to see protected.

The easiest way for people to submit suggested sites is through our online public consultation portal.

People can also email localplan@braintree.gov.uk or visit our council offices for a hard copy.

The deadline for submissions is 5pm on Friday 24 May 2024.