In the news: Last chance to have your say on the future of Basildon Borough

As we head into 2025, there is now just over one week left left for residents to share their views on the Draft Local Plan for Basildon Borough.

Basildon Council launched the Regulation 18 Consultation on the Basildon Borough Draft Local Plan in November. It will close on Sunday 12 January 2025. The consultation offers a vital opportunity for local people to have their say on the Draft Local Plan that will guide the borough's future over the next 20 years.

The consultation includes the opportunity to review the policies which make up the Draft Local Plan. Topics include the borough's approach to housing, transport infrastructure, climate change, economic growth, and more.

Residents can share their views on the topics which matter most to them - it is not a requirement to comment on every single element.

The Local Plan Consultation is available on Commonplace, the council's online platform. The consultation is designed to engage the local community in shaping a sustainable, thriving future for Basildon Borough.

To support the consultation, a series of drop-in events have been arranged to give residents a chance to learn more about the Local Plan. These events provide an opportunity to ask questions and seek support using the Commonplace platform.

Events will be held as follows:

• Monday 6 January, 5pm to 8pm - The Chantry Centre, Billericay, CM11 2BB 

• Wednesday 8 January, 10am to 2pm - Pitsea Market/The Range, Pitsea, SS13 3DU  

• Thursday 9 January, 5pm to 8pm - Unit 10 Westgate, Basildon, SS14 1WP 

• Friday 10 January, 5pm to 8pm - The Laindon Community Centre, Laindon, SS15 6NX

Councillor Adele Brown, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure, encourages everyone to get involved: "Thank you to those who have shared their views in the Local Plan Consultation - we've received some great feedback already. We want to hear from as many people as possible before the consultation closes. This Local Plan is not just about policies—it's about the people who live and work here, now and in the future. By contributing your views, you're helping us create a plan that works for everyone."

The consultation is open to all residents until midnight 12 January 2025, so there's still time for everyone to have their say. Residents are encouraged to visit the consultation platform at https://basildonlocalplan.commonplace.is/.

Councillor Brown added: "This consultation marks an exciting step towards shaping Basildon Boroughs future, and we need your help to make it the best it can be. Whether you're passionate about the environment, the local economy, or how we build new homes, your input is essential. Let's build Basildon's future together—brick by brick, voice by voice." 

To have your say, visit the online consultation at https://basildonlocalplan.commonplace.is/ 

The consultation closes on 12 January 2025.

Ends

Published 2 January 2025

Notes to editor:   

Basildon Council is required by law to complete a Local Plan for the Borough.

Following the withdrawal of the then emerging Local Plan in early 2022, the council has been developing a new Local Plan for Basildon Borough.

The consultation forms part of a timetable of activity which has been set by Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government. Following the consultation the Draft Local Plan will be submitted to the Planning Inspector in early 2025 for examination. 

Contact Basildon Council's Press Office at pressoffice@basildon.gov.uk for further information.